Expertise

Caroline deals with both contentious and non-contentious private client work to include will drafting, trust administration, estate planning, preparation and advice on Lasting Powers of Attorney.

The contentious work encompasses dealing with disputes arising from either a Will or Trust to include claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 (“1975 Act claims”), Variation of Trust Applications (“VTAs”), and removal of personal representative applications.

Recent Experience

• An application for removal of an executor, this matter was resolved through mediation.
• Advice to a spouse in respect of a 1975 Act claim.
• Variation of Trust application on a £500m trust to include application for anonymity.
• Advising a couple on estate planning in respect of a £30m estate to include liaising with their accountant over creation of a family investment company and involving our corporate team over preparation of the articles for the same.
• Advising trustees of a large family trust worth over £68m.
• Advising a charitable trust on its ongoing administration to include hosting biannual trustees meetings.
• Acted in the reported case of PQ and another v RS and others [2019] EWHC 1643 (Ch)

Career History

After graduating from Durham University with a degree in Theology, Caroline has been at Wedlake Bell since the merger with Cumberland Ellis in April 2012. She trained at Penningtons, qualifying in 2006, moving to Finers Stephens Innocent in 2007, before joining Cumberland Ellis in 2010.

She is a member of Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and a member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS).

Caroline writes articles for Spears, eprivate client, InTrust (Private Client department magazine).