Goughs Solicitors has strengthened it private client offering with the appointment of four new members.
The arrival of David Patterson, Andrew Langbridge and Elliott Chambers along with newly qualified solicitor Casey Gilroy means the team, which advises on wills, lasting powers of attorney, future planning, probate, estate administration and tax, is now 18-strong.
David, pictured top left, who has joined as partner and head of contentious probate, brings considerable expertise to the team, in particular will disputes including challenges to wills on grounds of lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence and fraudulent calumny.
He advises executors, beneficiaries and trustees and also advises on claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, as well as proprietary claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 and estoppel disputes.
He worked at Thrings for just over 32 years, he has spent the past four years as a consultant solicitor with Salisbury firm Bonallack & Bishop.
David said he was drawn to Goughs because of the firm’s dedication to embedding its values. “This comes through in the warm welcome everyone receives on joining the firm,” he added.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the firm on their plans for further growth over the coming years.”
Andrew, pictured bottom left, who is also a fully qualified member of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), has joined as a solicitor having previously spent eight years at Wansbroughs, where he trained.
He said: “The reputation Goughs has built over the years is unrivaled in Wiltshire and beyond, so to be joining is a career high for me.
“As a lawyer, I enjoy meeting clients, listening to them and building long lasting relationships with families.”
Elliott, pictured top right, who has rejoined Goughs after taking a break to run a family business, added: “Knowing that Goughs truly values trusted relationships with clients gives me full confidence that I will spend my career surrounded with like-minded individuals who offer exceptional client care.”
Casey, pictured bottom right, who joined the firm as a trainee two years ago after studying law at Swansea University, described her work in the private client department as varied and engaging.
“I love that no two days are the same,” she added.
“I am proud to be part of such a friendly and supportive team that goes above and beyond for their clients, which is the type of lawyer I aspire to be.”
Goughs partner and head of the private client team Emma Taylor, pictured, said: “This is such an exciting time for everyone at Goughs.
“This year we have been awarded a Times Best Places to Work accolade and are attracting top-level legal talent to all of our teams.
“David’s reputation within contentious private client law is exceptional and to have him join as a key member of the team is wonderful.
“I’m personally looking forward to working with Andrew and Elliot, who are bolstering the firm’s private client offering in our Calne and Trowbridge offices.
“It has been great to be part of Casey’s journey to date and I’m thrilled she chose private client for her career. We are delighted to have them on board.”
Established in 1882, Goughs provides legal services for individuals and businesses including divorce & separation, arrangements for children, employment, Wills, Trusts & Probate, commercial & residential property services and real estate & corporate services.
The firm employs more than 100 people across seven locations in Wiltshire, which include offices in Chippenham, Trowbridge and Melksham.
