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Friday, December 17, 2021
There’s no question that 2020 was a difficult year for everyone; a year that gave many people (myself included) the perspective on what really mattered to them.
It was clear to me by January 2021, after a hectic Christmas, and working throughout the various lockdowns, that I was just not enjoying my role in Property Law as much as I used to… something was missing.
Whilst I still loved helping clients and would always strive to do the best for them, the area of law was not one I was passionate about anymore. The Stamp Duty holidays introduced by the Government at the onset of the pandemic created an additional level of difficulty and chaos for anyone involved in conveyancing, including clients.
I took the difficult decision to leave my previous job and take some time to really consider what my next career move should be.
Come June I was ready to get back to the law and decided it was time to progress my career in an area of law that I have always had a genuine passion in; Wills, Trusts and Probate. The next big question was where??
I had to start somewhere and so I submitted my CV to various firms and recruiters across the region. and just after one week of searching I was fortunate enough to secure a number of interviews, the first of which being with Samuel Phillips Law.
Immediately I could tell that it would be the place for me. It was evident that the firm cared deeply for their staff, held very high standards of client care and professionalism, and had some very big plans for the future of the Wills, Trusts and Probate department which already had within its ranks two very experienced solicitors.
I was fortunate enough to secure a second interview with the new head of department four days after the initial interview and was then offered the job the following day. I was thrilled!
I have now been with the firm since July and my knowledge and understanding of the area has come on leaps and bounds.
I have a broad range of files, helping clients with various complex matters. I have been drawing on my knowledge of property law to assist clients with preparation of Wills to include life interests/rights of occupation clauses to safeguard assets against care fees. I have also been helping clients to get their affairs in order and assisting with registrations of title to make things easier for their executors on their death.
I really enjoy the preparation of Powers of Attorney, documents to grant someone the power to help you when you may be unable to help yourself due to incapacity or simply inability to leave your home, the benefits of which cannot be overlooked especially given the challenging years we have had.
I’ve also helped guide clients through the emotional time that is probate, both giving simple advice over the phone and dealing with the full estate on their behalf. I am always available for a free, no obligation chat about the next steps should a loved one pass way.
I have been fortunate enough to help many lovely clients with these matters, who have had nothing but kind words to say for the support that is given to them. My passion has been reignited and I look forward to many more years helping and guiding clients through this very emotive area of law.
I never would have imagined last January I would end up in this position, and could not be happier. Happy new year everyone, here’s to an excellent 2022!
Written by Peter Durham, Associate - Wills, Probate & Trusts
Peter has had experience with will drafting, administration of estates, powers of attorney and court of protection matters. He is keen to work alongside clients to assist and guide them with these delicate and emotive matters.
