Witnesses can now witness Will signings via video link.
In the UK, a Will is only valid if it meets certain legal requirements. One of these requirements is that the testator signs their Will in the physical presence of…
Rob Kelly gains qualification for helping clients with Will disputes
Losing a loved one is an emotional and distressing time, but this can be heightened further if there is a dispute regarding their Will, as this often involves close family…
Rob Kelly
Senior Associate — Dispute Resolution
Direct dial: 01202 377871
-
“A first choice for truly contentious Litigation in Automotive and Asset Finance and Leasing. His pure skill in tricky work wins through time and again and adds real value compared with the so called 'top tier' litigators. Truly capable, amenable and commercially minded business partners, the 'master chessmen' of their specialty.”
-
“I have had the pleasure of working with several members of the team at Laceys regularly over a period of years. I found Rob Kelly in particular, who worked on a successful litigation case for me over a period of several years to be outstanding in all aspects of the work he undertook, and the manner in which he did it. I now consider him a friend. I would not - and have not - hesitated to recommend Laceys to my family and friends, and continue to use them for all legal matters.”
-
“ I just wanted to thank you for your great work on the professional negligence case and other cases you have represented Indian Ocean and Tiien through the last few years.”
-
“I've worked with a fair few lawyers over the years and Rob Kelly is the most on the ball and efficient lawyers I've ever come across. I'm looking forward to working together for many years to come.”
Rob is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (September 2009). Rob also holds an LLB (Hons) degree in law. He successfully completed training as a mediator under the ADR Chambers / Harvard Law Project Scheme and was one of the first mediators to have been appointed an IMI Certified Mediation Advocate in the UK with a commercial practice.
Rob specialises in dispute resolution through litigation, arbitration and mediation, with particular emphasis on contractual disputes, claims involving allegations of professional negligence (which he has prosecuted on behalf of commercial and private clients and defended on behalf of insurers, re-insurers and Lloyd’s syndicates). He is regularly instructed in connection with substantial disputes involving contractual, professional negligence, contentious probate issues. Rob also deals with contentious property and landlord and tenant issues.
Rob’s style is a mix of listening, asking (tough) questions, diplomacy and reality testing. He’s interested, flexible, and pragmatic. He offers a common sense, realistic approach to assist his clients in searching for solutions to their disputes and brings straight talking and integrity to his work.
Related articles
Aisling Scott, Laceys trainee solicitor, provides an insight into training from home
TRAINING FROM HOME. As the end of my second seat dawns, what strikes me is I have...
Love Island’s Molly-Mae Hague breached ASA competition rules
Giveaways on social media are exceedingly common nowadays, and a great way for influencers and businesses to...
Making your Will legal whilst self-isolating
If you cannot leave your home and have concerns about how you can make a Will legally binding (it needs to be signed by two witnesses), this can still be…
Kate Mansfield
Partner — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377853
-
“We have had the pleasure of Kate’s sensitive and unwavering professional support for a number of years. She has always been able to combine her deep expertise, with practical context and a tone of voice that gently escorts you through, often difficult decisions. We could not recommend Kate highly enough, both professionally and personally.”
-
“Kate was extremely knowledgeable, straightforward to deal with as well as sympathetic during what was a difficult time. I felt in good hands!”
-
“We were treated with respect and felt our wishes were taken in consideration. The patience shown in helping us understand the implications of decisions was outstanding.”
-
“Very efficient and welcoming. Understood my access requirements and my unique concerns thoroughly.”
-
“Mrs Mansfield has been exemplary in every respect. She is an excellent listener and has the ability to explain complex issues patiently and emphatically. We are fortunate in having her as our legal adviser.”
-
“Professional, always available for a phone enquiry. Always informed me as thing's progressed. Excellent company with very pleasant and helpful front of house. My sincere thanks.”
-
“Kate took the trouble to understand the particularities affecting my Will and found sensible ways of dealing with them.”
Kate is head of our Private Client Team and has 25 years’ experience in private client work, specialising in wills, tax planning and estate administration. Kate has worked in this area since she qualified and has assisted thousands of families and individuals.
Kate qualified as a solicitor in 1995 after obtaining a 2.1 in Law from the University of Kent. She completed her training contract with Laceys and became a partner in 2002.
Kate is a full member of the Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners (STEP) and sat on the STEP committee for 6 years. She has also taught on the Legal Executives course at Bournemouth & Poole College.
Kate enjoys the personal side of the work and the satisfaction of assisting the bereaved and families with complex affairs, whether it be complex financial aspects or those where a diplomatic hand is required. She prides herself on being able to explain the legal position in plain English.
Out of the office she enjoys keeping fit. She enjoys going to the gym and getting out into the Dorset countryside on her road bike. Cooking, particularly baking, is also a passion.
Related articles
Making your Will legal whilst self-isolating
If you cannot leave your home and have concerns about how you can make a Will legally...
What happens to photos, videos, blogs and other digital assets when I die?
How often over the last few weeks in lockdown have you scrolled through your social media, posting...
What happens to photos, videos, blogs and other digital assets when I die?
How often over the last few weeks in lockdown have you scrolled through your social media, posting moments of your life to stay connected with the outside world? Now, even…
Kate Mansfield
Partner — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377853
-
“We have had the pleasure of Kate’s sensitive and unwavering professional support for a number of years. She has always been able to combine her deep expertise, with practical context and a tone of voice that gently escorts you through, often difficult decisions. We could not recommend Kate highly enough, both professionally and personally.”
-
“Kate was extremely knowledgeable, straightforward to deal with as well as sympathetic during what was a difficult time. I felt in good hands!”
-
“We were treated with respect and felt our wishes were taken in consideration. The patience shown in helping us understand the implications of decisions was outstanding.”
-
“Very efficient and welcoming. Understood my access requirements and my unique concerns thoroughly.”
-
“Mrs Mansfield has been exemplary in every respect. She is an excellent listener and has the ability to explain complex issues patiently and emphatically. We are fortunate in having her as our legal adviser.”
-
“Professional, always available for a phone enquiry. Always informed me as thing's progressed. Excellent company with very pleasant and helpful front of house. My sincere thanks.”
-
“Kate took the trouble to understand the particularities affecting my Will and found sensible ways of dealing with them.”
Kate is head of our Private Client Team and has 25 years’ experience in private client work, specialising in wills, tax planning and estate administration. Kate has worked in this area since she qualified and has assisted thousands of families and individuals.
Kate qualified as a solicitor in 1995 after obtaining a 2.1 in Law from the University of Kent. She completed her training contract with Laceys and became a partner in 2002.
Kate is a full member of the Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners (STEP) and sat on the STEP committee for 6 years. She has also taught on the Legal Executives course at Bournemouth & Poole College.
Kate enjoys the personal side of the work and the satisfaction of assisting the bereaved and families with complex affairs, whether it be complex financial aspects or those where a diplomatic hand is required. She prides herself on being able to explain the legal position in plain English.
Out of the office she enjoys keeping fit. She enjoys going to the gym and getting out into the Dorset countryside on her road bike. Cooking, particularly baking, is also a passion.
Related articles
Making your Will legal whilst self-isolating
If you cannot leave your home and have concerns about how you can make a Will legally...
What happens to photos, videos, blogs and other digital assets when I die?
How often over the last few weeks in lockdown have you scrolled through your social media, posting...
Certainty in times of uncertainty. Are your affairs are in order?
As we have heard so often over the last few days, if not weeks, we are now living in unprecedented times. Never, for so long as most of us can…
Deborah Pearce
Senior Associate — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377820
-
“Mrs Pearce helped me whilst going through my grief and explained everything in simple language and with sympathy and understanding.”
-
“Making a Will was not on the top of my "to do" list as I found the thought of it fairly daunting. But when I eventually contacted Laceys Solicitors the whole process from beginning to end was so easy. I felt totally supported by Deborah Pearce and was grateful for her professionalism, kindness and efficiency. The whole atmosphere at Laceys is very caring, friendly and comfortable. I highly recommend them.”
-
“Mrs Pearce was always helpful, pleasant to deal with and professional.”
Deborah is a Chartered Legal Executive who has worked in the Private Client department at Laceys for over 18 years.
Deborahs journey to Laceys started in 1985 when she qualified as a FILEX. She then undertook her Associateship in Taunton and completed her Fellowship in Poole. Aside from a couple of years in Gibraltar, Deborah then gained valuable experience working for various local firms in their private client departments before joining Laceys in 2000.
She specialises in all areas of private client work, wills, powers of attorney, tax planning, Court of Protection, administration of estates, NHS Continuing Care, welfare benefits and all issues related to the elderly and infirm. She finds this area of law quite holistic – it is not just a matter of applying rules and regulations but organising a client’s affairs in such a way that they are made easier and clearer during what can be a very emotional and upsetting time. Her work requires a very good and patient listening ear, bedside manner and sometimes a sense of humour but still achieving the client’s objectives on time.
When time permits she enjoys reading, cooking and relaxing by the Christchurch River but only when the sun shines! Travelling is a great hobby but there is never enough time to visit all. She has four stepchildren, four grandchildren plus a nephew and niece who help keep her busy at home!
Related articles
Attendance Allowance. Should you be getting it?
Are you familiar with ‘Attendance Allowance’? And do you know who is entitled to receive it? If...
How to prepare for care home funding
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Don’t be misled by updated Intestacy Rules. Writing a Will is the only way to ensure your wishes are considered.
Over 31 million people in the UK run the risk of dying intestate. This means that an individual dies without making a Will and in such circumstances, their estate is…
The Importance of making a Will
Research* has found that 54% of the British adult population do not have a Will, and 5.4 million people have no idea how to make one. The research also states…
Kate Mansfield
Partner — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377853
-
“We have had the pleasure of Kate’s sensitive and unwavering professional support for a number of years. She has always been able to combine her deep expertise, with practical context and a tone of voice that gently escorts you through, often difficult decisions. We could not recommend Kate highly enough, both professionally and personally.”
-
“Kate was extremely knowledgeable, straightforward to deal with as well as sympathetic during what was a difficult time. I felt in good hands!”
-
“We were treated with respect and felt our wishes were taken in consideration. The patience shown in helping us understand the implications of decisions was outstanding.”
-
“Very efficient and welcoming. Understood my access requirements and my unique concerns thoroughly.”
-
“Mrs Mansfield has been exemplary in every respect. She is an excellent listener and has the ability to explain complex issues patiently and emphatically. We are fortunate in having her as our legal adviser.”
-
“Professional, always available for a phone enquiry. Always informed me as thing's progressed. Excellent company with very pleasant and helpful front of house. My sincere thanks.”
-
“Kate took the trouble to understand the particularities affecting my Will and found sensible ways of dealing with them.”
Kate is head of our Private Client Team and has 25 years’ experience in private client work, specialising in wills, tax planning and estate administration. Kate has worked in this area since she qualified and has assisted thousands of families and individuals.
Kate qualified as a solicitor in 1995 after obtaining a 2.1 in Law from the University of Kent. She completed her training contract with Laceys and became a partner in 2002.
Kate is a full member of the Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners (STEP) and sat on the STEP committee for 6 years. She has also taught on the Legal Executives course at Bournemouth & Poole College.
Kate enjoys the personal side of the work and the satisfaction of assisting the bereaved and families with complex affairs, whether it be complex financial aspects or those where a diplomatic hand is required. She prides herself on being able to explain the legal position in plain English.
Out of the office she enjoys keeping fit. She enjoys going to the gym and getting out into the Dorset countryside on her road bike. Cooking, particularly baking, is also a passion.
Related articles
Making your Will legal whilst self-isolating
If you cannot leave your home and have concerns about how you can make a Will legally...
What happens to photos, videos, blogs and other digital assets when I die?
How often over the last few weeks in lockdown have you scrolled through your social media, posting...
Don’t be doubtful of your Domicile
You may know already that if a person fails to make reasonable provision for a dependant in their Will a claim may be brought under the Inheritance (Provision for Family…
Rob Kelly
Senior Associate — Dispute Resolution
Direct dial: 01202 377871
-
“A first choice for truly contentious Litigation in Automotive and Asset Finance and Leasing. His pure skill in tricky work wins through time and again and adds real value compared with the so called 'top tier' litigators. Truly capable, amenable and commercially minded business partners, the 'master chessmen' of their specialty.”
-
“I have had the pleasure of working with several members of the team at Laceys regularly over a period of years. I found Rob Kelly in particular, who worked on a successful litigation case for me over a period of several years to be outstanding in all aspects of the work he undertook, and the manner in which he did it. I now consider him a friend. I would not - and have not - hesitated to recommend Laceys to my family and friends, and continue to use them for all legal matters.”
-
“ I just wanted to thank you for your great work on the professional negligence case and other cases you have represented Indian Ocean and Tiien through the last few years.”
-
“I've worked with a fair few lawyers over the years and Rob Kelly is the most on the ball and efficient lawyers I've ever come across. I'm looking forward to working together for many years to come.”
Rob is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (September 2009). Rob also holds an LLB (Hons) degree in law. He successfully completed training as a mediator under the ADR Chambers / Harvard Law Project Scheme and was one of the first mediators to have been appointed an IMI Certified Mediation Advocate in the UK with a commercial practice.
Rob specialises in dispute resolution through litigation, arbitration and mediation, with particular emphasis on contractual disputes, claims involving allegations of professional negligence (which he has prosecuted on behalf of commercial and private clients and defended on behalf of insurers, re-insurers and Lloyd’s syndicates). He is regularly instructed in connection with substantial disputes involving contractual, professional negligence, contentious probate issues. Rob also deals with contentious property and landlord and tenant issues.
Rob’s style is a mix of listening, asking (tough) questions, diplomacy and reality testing. He’s interested, flexible, and pragmatic. He offers a common sense, realistic approach to assist his clients in searching for solutions to their disputes and brings straight talking and integrity to his work.
Related articles
Aisling Scott, Laceys trainee solicitor, provides an insight into training from home
TRAINING FROM HOME. As the end of my second seat dawns, what strikes me is I have...
Love Island’s Molly-Mae Hague breached ASA competition rules
Giveaways on social media are exceedingly common nowadays, and a great way for influencers and businesses to...
Inheritance Tax – the importance of proper valuations.
Most of us are aware that the role of an Executor when appointed under a Will is to administer the estate of a deceased person, in other words, to collect…
Deborah Pearce
Senior Associate — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377820
-
“Mrs Pearce helped me whilst going through my grief and explained everything in simple language and with sympathy and understanding.”
-
“Making a Will was not on the top of my "to do" list as I found the thought of it fairly daunting. But when I eventually contacted Laceys Solicitors the whole process from beginning to end was so easy. I felt totally supported by Deborah Pearce and was grateful for her professionalism, kindness and efficiency. The whole atmosphere at Laceys is very caring, friendly and comfortable. I highly recommend them.”
-
“Mrs Pearce was always helpful, pleasant to deal with and professional.”
Deborah is a Chartered Legal Executive who has worked in the Private Client department at Laceys for over 18 years.
Deborahs journey to Laceys started in 1985 when she qualified as a FILEX. She then undertook her Associateship in Taunton and completed her Fellowship in Poole. Aside from a couple of years in Gibraltar, Deborah then gained valuable experience working for various local firms in their private client departments before joining Laceys in 2000.
She specialises in all areas of private client work, wills, powers of attorney, tax planning, Court of Protection, administration of estates, NHS Continuing Care, welfare benefits and all issues related to the elderly and infirm. She finds this area of law quite holistic – it is not just a matter of applying rules and regulations but organising a client’s affairs in such a way that they are made easier and clearer during what can be a very emotional and upsetting time. Her work requires a very good and patient listening ear, bedside manner and sometimes a sense of humour but still achieving the client’s objectives on time.
When time permits she enjoys reading, cooking and relaxing by the Christchurch River but only when the sun shines! Travelling is a great hobby but there is never enough time to visit all. She has four stepchildren, four grandchildren plus a nephew and niece who help keep her busy at home!
Related articles
Attendance Allowance. Should you be getting it?
Are you familiar with ‘Attendance Allowance’? And do you know who is entitled to receive it? If...
How to prepare for care home funding
The issue of care home funding is not simple – you need to consider not only the...
Life Interest Trusts – helping protect your assets.
It is often the case for married couples, or couples in a registered civil partnership, to want to do a straight forward Will leaving everything to the survivor of them….
Kate Mansfield
Partner — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377853
-
“We have had the pleasure of Kate’s sensitive and unwavering professional support for a number of years. She has always been able to combine her deep expertise, with practical context and a tone of voice that gently escorts you through, often difficult decisions. We could not recommend Kate highly enough, both professionally and personally.”
-
“Kate was extremely knowledgeable, straightforward to deal with as well as sympathetic during what was a difficult time. I felt in good hands!”
-
“We were treated with respect and felt our wishes were taken in consideration. The patience shown in helping us understand the implications of decisions was outstanding.”
-
“Very efficient and welcoming. Understood my access requirements and my unique concerns thoroughly.”
-
“Mrs Mansfield has been exemplary in every respect. She is an excellent listener and has the ability to explain complex issues patiently and emphatically. We are fortunate in having her as our legal adviser.”
-
“Professional, always available for a phone enquiry. Always informed me as thing's progressed. Excellent company with very pleasant and helpful front of house. My sincere thanks.”
-
“Kate took the trouble to understand the particularities affecting my Will and found sensible ways of dealing with them.”
Kate is head of our Private Client Team and has 25 years’ experience in private client work, specialising in wills, tax planning and estate administration. Kate has worked in this area since she qualified and has assisted thousands of families and individuals.
Kate qualified as a solicitor in 1995 after obtaining a 2.1 in Law from the University of Kent. She completed her training contract with Laceys and became a partner in 2002.
Kate is a full member of the Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners (STEP) and sat on the STEP committee for 6 years. She has also taught on the Legal Executives course at Bournemouth & Poole College.
Kate enjoys the personal side of the work and the satisfaction of assisting the bereaved and families with complex affairs, whether it be complex financial aspects or those where a diplomatic hand is required. She prides herself on being able to explain the legal position in plain English.
Out of the office she enjoys keeping fit. She enjoys going to the gym and getting out into the Dorset countryside on her road bike. Cooking, particularly baking, is also a passion.
Related articles
Making your Will legal whilst self-isolating
If you cannot leave your home and have concerns about how you can make a Will legally...
What happens to photos, videos, blogs and other digital assets when I die?
How often over the last few weeks in lockdown have you scrolled through your social media, posting...
Lasting Powers of Attorney – Power to Delegate.
An attorney (the person making decisions for you) under a Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs cannot delegate their authority to someone else unless the Power specifically…
Kate Mansfield
Partner — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377853
-
“We have had the pleasure of Kate’s sensitive and unwavering professional support for a number of years. She has always been able to combine her deep expertise, with practical context and a tone of voice that gently escorts you through, often difficult decisions. We could not recommend Kate highly enough, both professionally and personally.”
-
“Kate was extremely knowledgeable, straightforward to deal with as well as sympathetic during what was a difficult time. I felt in good hands!”
-
“We were treated with respect and felt our wishes were taken in consideration. The patience shown in helping us understand the implications of decisions was outstanding.”
-
“Very efficient and welcoming. Understood my access requirements and my unique concerns thoroughly.”
-
“Mrs Mansfield has been exemplary in every respect. She is an excellent listener and has the ability to explain complex issues patiently and emphatically. We are fortunate in having her as our legal adviser.”
-
“Professional, always available for a phone enquiry. Always informed me as thing's progressed. Excellent company with very pleasant and helpful front of house. My sincere thanks.”
-
“Kate took the trouble to understand the particularities affecting my Will and found sensible ways of dealing with them.”
Kate is head of our Private Client Team and has 25 years’ experience in private client work, specialising in wills, tax planning and estate administration. Kate has worked in this area since she qualified and has assisted thousands of families and individuals.
Kate qualified as a solicitor in 1995 after obtaining a 2.1 in Law from the University of Kent. She completed her training contract with Laceys and became a partner in 2002.
Kate is a full member of the Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners (STEP) and sat on the STEP committee for 6 years. She has also taught on the Legal Executives course at Bournemouth & Poole College.
Kate enjoys the personal side of the work and the satisfaction of assisting the bereaved and families with complex affairs, whether it be complex financial aspects or those where a diplomatic hand is required. She prides herself on being able to explain the legal position in plain English.
Out of the office she enjoys keeping fit. She enjoys going to the gym and getting out into the Dorset countryside on her road bike. Cooking, particularly baking, is also a passion.
Related articles
Making your Will legal whilst self-isolating
If you cannot leave your home and have concerns about how you can make a Will legally...
What happens to photos, videos, blogs and other digital assets when I die?
How often over the last few weeks in lockdown have you scrolled through your social media, posting...