George Merrylees

Partner

Private Client

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Expertise

George advises on cross-border tax planning, asset structuring and succession. He acts for international high net worth individuals, trustees and family offices with a particular focus on fund managers, business owners, and entrepreneurs.

Being one of a handful of UK specialists in his field able to advise on complex matters in French, George is able to offer a unique, culturally intelligent and joined up service to Francophone clients whether from Europe, Israel, the Americas or Africa.

George sits on the Advisory council of the French Chamber of Commerce, is the chairman of the Franco-British Society and sits as an alumni representative on the Franco-British Young Leaders Board.

Career History

George joined Wedlake Bell as a partner in January 2022. Prior to that, George was a partner at Irwin Mitchell, a firm he joined through the merger of Berkeley Law and Irwin Mitchell in 2014.

George started his private client career at New Quadrant Partners in 2010. Before moving to private client, George worked in shipping both as a P&I claims handler and as a ship finance solicitor.

Very good team, very responsive and pleasant to work with. George Merrylees stands out by his nice personality. He is available, kind and has a very good knowledge of French/UK cross border tax matters. He is also fluent in French.

Legal 500, 2025

George Merryless is a fantastic lawyer. He is very client focused and is capable of understanding the commercial requirements of the clients and providing practical advice. He is always available. He is also French native speaker and is a great asset for UK-France cross border work.

Legal 500, 2025

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Partner George Merrylees addresses what counts in choosing an offshore jurisdiction, published in Wealth Briefing Asia. Click here for the full article.