Independent Administrator
Independent Estate Administration
When an estate faces delays or disputes due to the absence of a willing executor or unresolved conflicts, appointing an Independent Administrator can be a crucial step in ensuring smooth and effective administration.
Call 020 7485 8811 today.
“The practice at Osbornes often acts for a wide range of HNW individuals and families on complex estate and trust cases, frequently dealing with cross-border estates.”
“Jan is highly regarded by other private client lawyers: honestly, she’s the lawyer other lawyers would choose to deal with their own affairs. She keenly identifies the issues to focus on and delivers.”
Introduction
In the absence of a willing and able executor, or where conflicts have arisen, an Independent Administrator can be appointed to take on the administration of the estate.
If there is no executor (or administrator if there is no will), the estate cannot be dealt with until someone has legal powers to do so. And where there is conflict, disputes between executors and beneficiaries can cause deadlock – halting the administration of the estate.
The appointment of an impartial Independent Administrator, which is usually a professional firm, enables the administration to proceed smoothly and cost-effectively.
The specialist probate team at Osbornes Law act as skilled Independent Administrators and are able to act with impartiality and neutrality. We are frequently appointed by agreement of the parties and, in other cases, by the court.
Contact us here for advice on how we can help.
What is an Independent Administrator?
An Independent Administrator is someone, typically an experienced probate solicitor, who is granted power to deal with a deceased estate. With that power, they have the legal and administrative rights and responsibilities to handle the administration – right through to distribution of the net assets to the estate beneficiaries.
Their responsibilities range from calculating the value of estate assets and liabilities, paying inheritance tax, obtaining the grant and collecting in the assets. Essentially, the Independent Administrator’s role is much the same as that of an executor, subject to any restrictions imposed by the court. They will manage any conflicts and tensions that arise during the administration period.
Executors are those named as such in the deceased’s will and they have the legal power to deal with the estate immediately on the death. Substitute executors are often named in the will, in case a named executor cannot act for any reason. However, on death the position regarding named executors could be tricky. For instance:
- No named executor has survived the deceased
- None of the named executors are able or willing to act
- The beneficiaries cannot agree who should be appointed as substitute executor/s
- A dispute between named executors has arisen and cannot be resolved
In these cases, the sensible option (and sometimes, the only option) is for an Independent Administrator to be appointed – either by the court or with the agreement of the estate beneficiaries.
An Independent Administration will also be necessary if the individual died without a valid will, and there are no living relatives entitled to be appointed estate administrator.
Reasons to Appoint an Independent Administrator
The appointment of an Independent Administrator might be the only way forward to progress the administration of an estate and break through any impasse between the parties. In many cases, an Independent Administrator can bring significant benefits to the estate and the beneficiaries.
- Neutrality – An Independent Administrator is totally neutral and independent of all parties concerned. They are undistracted by family and relationship matters relating to the estate and are equipped to approach areas of dispute dispassionately and efficiently.
- Expertise – Their professional experience means they have the ability to handle the most complex estates in a professional and efficient manner. Complications can arise in relation to, eg disputed lifetime transfers, disputes around occupation and beneficial entitlement to land and property, capacity issues and cross-border assets. A specialist administrator will handle these issues with confidence.
- Dispute resolution – They are able to help the executors and beneficiaries resolve any tensions and conflicts; and minimise any delays to concluding distribution of the estate.
- Tax obligations – Specialist Independent Administrators are familiar with the wide-ranging tax issues that arise during the administration of the estate. The probate team at Osbornes Law are highly experienced in handling inheritance tax and other tax implications, including in complex estates, and advising trustees on their ongoing tax obligations.
- Legal compliance – Executors and administrators must comply with a range of legal requirements, not least because they act as trustees of the estate assets pending distribution of the estate. They risk personal liability if they breach their obligations and the estate suffers loss. Independent Administrators are subject to the same duties. The appointment of specialists takes away that burden from other individuals who are unable or unwilling to take it on, or are caught up in unresolved disputes with other parties.
In our extensive experience, the option of an Independent Administrator offers welcome relief and reassurance to individuals who may be confused and frustrated about the best way forward.
- Related article: The Benefits of Early Inheritance Tax Planning
Services Provided by Independent Administrators
Once appointed, the Independent Administrator has the legal powers to administer the estate. As specialist Independent Administrators, the solicitors at Osbornes Law have responsibility for obtaining the grant of representation and will handle the following:
- Asset identification and valuation – With the assistance of family and close friends, we will need to identify all the assets and liabilities of the deceased, and value each as at the date of death. We will then calculate the value of the estate and calculate any inheritance tax (IHT) payable
- Paying outstanding debts and taxes – We will need to pay the IHT due (if any), and pay off any creditors of the deceased when they died. There will also be further liabilities, such as funeral and other expenses to be paid out of the estate.
- Tax returns – We will need to complete tax returns in respect of IHT and other tax liabilities. If further assets are identified later, we will need to account to HMRC with further tax returns.
- Calling in the assets – The assets will be collected in and funds paid into the executor’s account; and any specific property or assets dealt with according to the will’s terms.
- Distribution of assets to beneficiaries – The Independent Administrators will be required to identify and contact the beneficiaries. This includes taking steps to protect the estate and beneficiaries from potential claims arising after distribution of the estate. The estate can then be distributed among the beneficiaries under the will (or intestacy rules).
- Managing disputes and legal challenges – Probate disputes are not uncommon, but it’s reassuring to know that most disagreements can be resolved promptly with sensitive and professional guidance. One of the key roles of an Independent Administrator is to support the parties resolve disputes efficiently to avoid delays in the administration, while ensuring their interests are properly protected.
As experts, we work hard to ensure disagreements do not escalate to the courtroom. Our neutrality provides significant reassurance for all parties involved because they know we are unconnected in any personal way.
Our impartiality also means we’re better able to make difficult but necessary decisions concerning the estate.
Legal Framework for Independent Administrators
An Independent Administrator can be appointed under s116 Senior Courts Act 1981 if no grant has yet been issued by the probate court. This provision allows the court to remove an executor, even if they are entitled to apply for the Grant of Probate, where there are ‘special circumstances’ making it ‘expedient or necessary’ to appoint an Independent Administrator.
There may, for instance, be a complete breakdown in relationship between executors, or an executor and the beneficiaries (who could well all be family members); or the executors may be unsuitable or otherwise untrustworthy. There may be a deadlock over an issue in dispute; and sometimes there are cross-border issues that make it impossible for someone to act as executor.
- Related reading: Beware of appointing your children as executors
It is for the judge to use their discretion whether to exercise their power, bearing in mind the deceased may have specified their preferred executor/s in the will. The judge will generally consider the nature of any breakdown in relationship between the parties, potential conflicts and what is in the best interests of the beneficiaries – and the efficient administration of the estate itself.
What if a grant has been issued?
It is possible for an Independent Administrator to be appointed even if an executor has already obtained the Grant of Probate.
Where a grant has already been issued, it may become necessary to ask the court to revoke the grant, remove the executor/s and have an Independent Administrator appointed instead. This may be appropriate where an executor has breached their legal duties, failed to act, acted fraudulently or there are concerns around their financial management, or there is an irretrievable breakdown in relationship between executors/beneficiaries.
An application removing an executor can be made under s50 Administration of Justice Act 1985, and an application made to appoint an Independent Administrator. The court will take into account much the same factors as for a s116 application.
We understand how distressing it is when an estate is held up because of conflict. However, we would not advise taking such steps lightly because of the costs and time potentially involved.
If it does become necessary, we would work hard to obtain the executor/s’ consent to the appointment of an Independent Administrator to minimise any legal costs and delays to the estate.
Who Can Appoint an Independent Administrator?
An Independent Administrator can be appointed by the court on an application, or following the mutual consent of the beneficiaries to the appointment (the court will still need to approve the appointment).
Where executors are already in place but, for example are unable to perform their duties because of a dispute, they and the beneficiaries can agree to the appointment of an Independent Administrator to break through the deadlock.
Most often, the court will be asked to appoint an Independent Administrator in a contested estate, particularly where an intractable dispute involving executors has arisen and the administration has ground to a halt.
Benefits of Choosing an Independent Administrator
The appointment of a specialist Independent Administrator frees the estate and any related dispute from the confines of relationship issues and family disputes. We understand that the grieving process following a loved one’s death can be drawn out and may heighten estate and property disputes.
The key benefit to having an Independent Administrator on board is their neutrality and impartiality. It means that the legal and administrative tasks and responsibilities of the estate can be performed efficiently and smoothly, unhindered by personal tensions between the interested parties.
Importantly, an Independent Administrator is free from the risk of a conflict of interests; in fact, they often prove instrumental in supporting warring parties in diffusing the issues in disputes. As expert Independent Administrators, we have often been involved in contested probates where the parties were unable to resolve their dispute until we were appointed and able to help them break through the deadlock.
Our role as Independent Administrators significantly reduces the stress for grieving families and the estate beneficiaries. They have confidence that we have the expertise to deal with the estate efficiently and cost-effectively.
Costs and Fees
Involving an Independent Administrator in the administration process does not necessarily increase the costs to the estate. The underlying purpose for having an Independent Administrator is to continue the administration – and often, to get it going after it’s stalled – and to do it cost-effectively and in a time-efficient manner.
It’s understandable to assume that the professional costs could mount, but a specialist Independent Administrator is, in reality, able to minimise the costs by cutting through any difficulties quickly and concluding the administration promptly.
Our fees are clear and transparent. We will discuss the estate with you and explain the basis of charging and what you can expect as the administration proceeds.
We keep our clients informed as to the progress of the administration and explain, at an appropriate stage, should any additional time and costs be required. However, we work hard to keep the costs to the estate to a minimum – protecting the interests of the beneficiaries.
How to Appoint an Independent Administrator
If you are an executor or other interested party, such as an estate beneficiary, and you think an Independent Administrator should be appointed to handle the administration – please get in touch for a confidential chat.
You may already have individuals in mind who may be suitable to act; but while any experienced estate practitioner could be appointed – it is wise to consider selecting professional and experienced probate specialists.
Osbornes Law act regularly as Independent Administrators and we will be pleased to advise on what steps we can take on your behalf. We also act on behalf of Independent Administrators.
We will ask for a summary of the estate assets and liabilities; whether there are any named executors; if a grant has already been obtained; and what complicating factors may be involved.
We will also need to know whether discussions have been had with any other executors and beneficiaries. If, for instance, there is no mutual agreement then the interests of the estate as a whole may mean we need to make a formal application to the court for the appointment of an Independent Administrator.
However, it is always advisable to move forward with the agreement of all parties, in order to save time and costs – and ensure the administration of the estate can be expedited without undue delay.
Why Choose Osbornes Law?
The most important decision you can make for the estate is to choose the best lawyers to support you, the beneficiaries and to protect the estate as a whole. The probate team at Osbornes Law acst as Independent Administrators for estates, including in contested probates, complex high value estates and cross-border estates.
We have formidable experience in all types of wills and probate disputes; handling the most complex issues that arise during the administration of estates. We are committed to providing a clear, impartial and professional service, always prioritising the interests of the estate and its beneficiaries.
Our senior partner Jan Atkinson is a specialist in acting as Independent Administrator, supported by an experienced team of lawyers. Jan is highly ranked in legal directories such as Chambers High Net Worth directory.
You can read about some of our case studies here where the firm has acted as Independent Administrator in HNW matters.
Contact Information
We can help you take the most prudent and practical steps to continue the estate administration and break through any ongoing deadlock.
Contact Jan Atkinson as soon as you can for expert advice and support on 020 7485 8811 or complete our enquiry form below
We support clients in London and the surrounding regions; from offices in Hampstead and Camden in London
Speak to us about Independent Estate Administration
Call us 020 7485 8811
For all new enquiries, please submit your details via the contact forms on our website. This will ensure your query reaches the right team and is handled promptly.
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Jan Atkinson combines technical knowledge with deep insight and excellent client manner.
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Osbornes Law is a really good firm. I refer matters to them because I trust they'll do a good job.
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I instruct them in both straightforward and complex cross-border probate applications.
The practice at Osbornes often acts for a wide range of HNW individuals and families on complex estate and trust cases, frequently dealing with cross-border estates.
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Osbornes is a strong medium-sized firm based in North London but with a regional presence.
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I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the support and guidance you provided during the settlement of my late uncle's estate. Your professionalism and compassion made a challenging time much easier for us. I would also like to extend my thanks to your team for their assistance throughout this process. You have a dedicated group of individuals working alongside you, and their efforts did not go unnoticed.
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Many thanks Julia, Angela and Tom.Many many thanks for everything, you have been simply amazing, really appreciate all your help!! You're a superstar!!
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Clare and I are very grateful for the time that you have taken in explaining each of the trust options available to us, and for the guidance / advise within your concluding comments. Once again, thank you for your support and for the professional service that you have personally provided to Clare and I.
Thank you so much for all your work and attention to detail on the estate Roshni. Aliz, Juli, and I appreciate it very much!
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We'd like to thank all of you for your professionalism in helping us deal with everything for the past 17 months. Even though our choice of law firm at the beginning was random, we're glad we came to you. We're very grateful that you're on our side and fighting for what's rightfully belongs to us! We couldn't have had a better lawyer representing us and we appreciate you more than you can imagine.
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I especially appreciate the highly professional and caring approach that you have shown throughout the process.
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I have been a client of this firm for a number of years and been impressed by a particular individual, the care and thoughtfulness with which they have worked. Jenny Walsh
Working with Janet and Suzanna has always been a very smooth process. They render advice that is practical, often going beyond what was required of them and they respond very swiftly
Suzanna Baker is very easy to work with. She has great knowledge on tricky areas and is practical and sensible
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Jan Atkinson is very client-focused and responsive, and seems very much on top of both the relevant law and of the details of my matter.
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I would like to take this opportunity to say, I am very grateful for all your efforts, help, and consistently good, professional advice. At the end of the day, I consider myself lucky to have found you and would certainly not hesitate to refer you to anyone that needs Wills, Trusts, Probate expertise.
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Thank you for managing my case, following a complete fiasco before I contacted Osbornes Law. I know that the work involved was rather complicated, possibly frustrating and often time consuming. I was impressed with your current knowledge of the case when we had the first meeting at your office. I regard a face-to-face meeting as imperative in developing positive relationships. Members of your team, such as Alex and Ella were impressive too, with their efficient, friendly manner of working.
I am grateful for your patience, advice and excellent support at a difficult time. Hopefully it won't be necessary to contact you again regarding this matter! I will definitely use Osbornes Law in the future.Fantastic - Thank you so very much for your impressive input in this matter.
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Jan Atkinson is a well established and respected partner in the field. Knowledgeable and sensible
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difficult clients.""The department handles complex and high-value litigation on behalf of individuals and trust companies and many of its cases have a cross-border dimension."
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"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your sincere, supportive and professional approach and services provided to me over the past few months with preparing the necessary paperwork; furthermore I have very much appreciated your friendly and accessible manner."
Thank you also for all your hard work over the last two years. I would like to commend your patience and diligence, your understanding and communication.
"I wanted to say a huge thank you for your tremendous help and advice throughout and I am incredibly grateful for your knowledge, support and striving to get us the best outcome possible in this situation. I very much appreciate it. Thank you again for working patiently with us and for your sensitive approach throughout. "
I would highly recommend Katie de Swarte. Her attention to the details of my case, combined with her sensitivity and support, to what was an emotionally challenging and complex legal matter, was much appreciated and excellent. I felt she always listened to what I was saying and never rushed me. She was happy to work with me collaboratively where appropriate, as well as guiding my decisions with solid, legal advice at all times.
"A doyenne of family law in international children work. She is phenomenal, and lives and breathes this work. There's nothing she doesn't know."
I can't thank you enough for all you have done to help me through this ordeal. I really appreciate your time, effort and good humour. I shall absolutely know who to recommend if anyone needs a top lawyer in London.
Katie de Swarte and Elspeth Neilson have both instructed me recently, and both seemed to me to be able to build excellent relationships with their clients and to run their practices very efficiently
Jan Atkinson is always a delight to work with
Elspeth Neilson – incredibly impressive and hardworking.
Jan Atkinson – Rolls Royce advice
Elspeth Neilson is a clever and efficient solicitor, who gets great client feedback.
Jan Atkinson is fierce and dedicated to her clients.
Jan Atkinson has a wealth of knowledge and experience combined with a terrier-like ability to investigate the relevant facts, which make her an excellent choice in a contentious probate or trust dispute. She has outstanding commitment and always delivers for her clients.
Katie de Swarte is hardworking and has great empathy for her clients
Elspeth Neilson is a well-regarded junior partner
Well-established, busy practice. Jan Atkinson has a long-standing solid reputation in the field. Knowledgeable and formidable.
A very heartfelt ‘thank you’ to you and the whole team there. I am very happy with everything that has been achieved by you. I will certainly contact you in the future and recommend yourself and Osbornes to others whenever the need arises.
"I have come to trust your expertise, professionalism and honesty, I do appreciate that you have gone the extra mile. In particular you have shown a huge amount of common sense and a measured approach, coupled with doggedness and determination, all of which I believe have been vital factors in reaching the point we have reached."
"I would also like to express my sincere thanks to you for a job well done over the last five years in working towards a successful outcome for myself and my family... It has been frustratingly slow at times, and there were many barriers and obstacles put in the way, but the final outcome is a credit to your intelligent and diligent work."
“Jan is an impressive lawyer who knows her way around private wealth dispute matters.”
"I wish to thank you for your advice, efficiency and professionalism throughout which has been greatly appreciated."
"She's very able, she can do both the non-contentious and contentious sides very, very well."
"Incredibly dedicated and committed to her clients."
"I am proud to be a private client of Osbornes Solicitors LLP, a client of many years. I appreciate the swift and efficient work of the Private Client Department Team."
“Thank you for your 1st class professional service and support on this.”
“Jenny was fabulous….full stop!”
“Many thanks for all your assistance in this matter [making a will] we are very pleased we chose to come to you and Osbornes.”
"Your help and service has been excellent; timely responses and robust attention to detail have made the task for us very easy and straightforward. Thank you, all your work much appreciated and you have been a fine representative for Osbornes."
"Thank you for all your work you did for me you were amazing, I would definitely recommend you to my friends and I would definitely use your service again."
"Thank you for holding my hand through this procedure and your kindness which has been greatly appreciated."
"Appreciated the professionalism of my solicitor, Miss Samantha Tayler in particular her clear explanation of legal terms and situations, her attention to great details which reassured me and put my mind at rest, her patience in helping me to make sure that I was satisfied to all aspects of my will before I signed the final draft. Since I have assets in Malta, she also clarified for me the situation regarding the European Succession Law."
"Thank you again for all the courteous help you gave me over the time of settling my husband’s will. I am very grateful to you."
"For probate, I'd recommend Samantha Tayler at Osbornes. Excellent client service, responsive and helpful during a difficult time. Proactive in flagging incoming changes to court fees, thereby saving the estate significant costs and securing probate in a timely and efficient manner. Many thanks."
"Thank you for all your help with the Estate affairs. It has been a pleasure dealing with you and you have helped to make the whole process a lot more bearable."
“Jill and I are extremely grateful for all the hard work you did on our behalf, in such a professional manner. You kept us fully informed at all times which was much appreciated and achieved the best possible outcome. We would have no hesitation in recommending both you and Osbornes to any of our family and friends in the future”.
“Mr Joseph Gunn provided outstanding legal advice about my Will. His attention to details and his knowledge of national and international regulations were invaluable”.
“You have truly shone out from anyone I have known with your experience and knowledge in these types of situations”
“You have completely amazed me and I have such heart-felt gratitude for your dedication and perseverance”
“Thank you all very much for your professional service, it has been reassuring throughout.”
“I should note that it is refreshing to deal with an efficient, professional, and well written lawyer such as yourself.”
“I wanted to say that I am grateful beyond words at the effort Jan Atkinson has been putting in towards fixing our situation.”
“Jan Atkinson is a very proficient lady whom I would highly recommend to anyone involved in probates.”
“I would highly recommend you in any probate matter and your firm in any other legal matters.”
“I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you and your integrity. You are one in a million! I trusted you all along the way.”
“Once more this year your professionalism, hard work, perseverance, dedication and expertise with my case has truly humbled me. You kept me going when I had lost all strength… your action and your ability to power through is remarkable and outstanding.”
“I feel so humbled at your dedication from start to end when I was 100% lost. Also, I am in awe of your skills and knowledge with how to handle all the steps in this case and also how you helped throughout this whole thing. Your kindness and understanding to me is overwhelming… honestly, in each part of this, you’ve amazed me more than the last time.”
“Jan is one of the most client-friendly, ‘savvy’ solicitors I’ve ever met. A solicitor who knows exactly how to navigate a case to the best possible outcome. In my case, being able to contain my over- zealous demands, which, without her control, could have come to nothing. Jan has this great command of the law and knows exactly, how to execute it, in the interests of her client. I have her to thank for everything. My family members and I are all with her excellent firm, Osbornes Solicitors LLP, ‘a chain, solicitors and right-hands, with no weak link.”
“Thank-you Jan from the bottom of my heart for all your care and for standing up for me this whole time in addition to constantly pushing this along, sharing your help and advice with everyone and for having such clear focus with direction. Each step of the way you have amazed me more than the last time. I am so grateful and appreciative of all that you have done. This chapter of my life will close, thank-you to you. My words are so small for all that you have done. You have given me more than you know”
"Thank you Jenny for all you have done... I am very appreciative and glad that we selected you to do the work. It has made the path of Probate smoother than anticipated and your expertise has been reassuring throughout."
“Thanks so much for work on this, very happy with your service and the team involved. Best law firm 2019 & 2020 says it all.”
“I have greatly appreciated your help, guidance and support throughout the whole process of dealing with the estate. It has been a real pleasure working with you and in particular being able to discuss my thoughts and questions on how particular aspects should be handled; and I have valued as your common sense approach as well as your technical/legal knowledge. I know I speak for all the family, nieces and nephew included, when I express our heartfelt thanks for all you have done and, not least, your sympathy for the family.”
“Thank you for all your hard work and professionalism in all you have done and are doing on our behalf”
“I received an outstanding service from Osbornes Law in relation to the processing of a complicated overseas Will. The service provided by Suzanna Baker and Jan Atkinson was very professional, their communication was clear and concise, and I felt that they did all they could to ensure as smooth a progression through probate as could be expected."
“Thanks again for all your efforts, it is so much appreciated that I will be recommending Osbornes to family and friends in the future”
“I am emailing to let you know the Fantastic work Suzanna Baker does. She is handling the will/estate for my late Uncle. I am located in Australia, so as expected there are geographical and time differences hindering communication. In a few emails and one phone call we had sorted the whole matter out and finalised. This was impressive to say the least! All I wish is that Suzanna be recognised for her fantastic work.”
I received an outstanding service from Osbornes Law in relation to the processing of a complicated overseas Will. The service provided by Suzanna Baker and Jan Atkinson was very professional, their communication was clear and concise, and I felt that they did all they could to ensure as smooth a progression through probate as could be expected. I would 100% recommend this law firm.
Appreciated the professionalism of my solicitor, Samantha Tayler, in particular her clear explanation of legal terms and situations, her attention to great details which reassured me and put my mind at rest, her patience in helping me to make sure that I was satisfied to all aspects of my will before I signed the final draft. Since I have assets in Malta, she also clarified for me the situation regarding the European Succession Law .
Jan Atkinson has extensive experience in private client matters, which underpins her excellent skills in the contentious probate area. Plus she is strong on international matters.
Jan Atkinson is a stand out partner who combines a non-contentious and contentious practice. She is calm, persuasive and persistent. Clients would undoubtedly trust her and she is able to call on a super nice rock solid team around her.
Jan Atkinson is an impressive lawyer who knows her way around private wealth dispute matters. She is very experienced in lengthy and fraught disputes and knows how to achieve good solutions for all parties involved. She is very on the ball and works very efficiently.
She brings a depth of experience in estate administration to her respected disputes practice.
Elspeth explained everything very clearly and made us feel comfortable.
I am truly amazed by and exceedingly happy with the rapid progress being made by you and your team in handling matters on my behalf.
"Jan Atkinson, with her steely, steady, calming presence, instils confidence in the most highly-strung of us clients. With her masterful knowledge of the law, old and new, and its application, Jan can navigate through the most complex of cases to a successful end."
"I find Osbornes’ client-friendly approach welcoming and refreshing"
"Jan Atkinson is a formidable litigator in succession disputes – you want her on your team in any such case"
"A very capable team headed by the wonderful Jan Atkinson. She is both able and charming, which is a winning combination"
"Jan Atkinson stands out for her wide-ranging knowledge and experience of estates; whatever problem you throw at her, she has seen it all before and is able to find a creative and sustainable solution. She has exceptional commitment to her clients and explores every avenue to find the best solution for them"
"Osbornes does high-quality work. Jan Atkinson is the go-to partner for independent administrations"
"A medium-sized London firm dealing with big litigation and doing it extremely well because of a depth of expertise and experience."
"Jan Atkinson is extremely experienced and an expert in this area of law. She is utterly pragmatic, always looking at what the client wants to achieve. She can be extremely tough when she needs to be but always knows when to compromise"
My family had the pleasure of Jan Atkinson working with us on the will and probate issues of [my mother's] estate in Camden and Ireland after she passed on last year. Jan and her assistant(s) offered us a fantastic service at a sad time.
"Jan Atkinson stands out for her wide-ranging knowledge and experience of estates; whatever problem you throw at her, she has seen it all before and is able to find a creative and sustainable solution. She has exceptional commitment to her clients and explores every avenue to find the best solution for them"
Jan Atkinson has extensive experience in private client matters, which underpins her excellent skills in the contentious probate area. Plus she is strong on international matters
A small but formidable team, punching above its weight. Jan Atkinson is a seasoned pro. Approachable but no push-over
The team is very caring, experienced and detailed and was clear about the next steps and offered very helpful advice and suggestions
Jan Atkinson is "terrific," "extremely professional" and "enormously experienced."
Jan Atkinson's "in-depth knowledge of the non-contentious work gives her an advantage when she's dealing with very difficult contentious issues, because she really understands what has gone wrong and how to get it right"
"Elspeth Neilson is very reliable and practical."
"They are an outstanding firm to work with. They are consistently impressive in their work."
"The team frequently deals with cross-border estates for high–net-worth individuals."
"An exceptional outfit. They take on difficult cases, fight hard and win."
"Osbornes feels like a local firm but with a Big City reach."
"The team were extremely professional in putting my needs first. There was a joined-up approach to catering for the client, and all lawyers involved were briefed and constructive."
"Recognised for its expertise in both domestic and international adoption, as well as assisted conception."
"Mark Freedman draws acclaim for his work in high net worth divorce cases, including those involving company structures, family trusts and overseas assets."
The situation was handled by your extremely competent, efficient hands - I would not hesitate to recommend Osbornes to others.
"Service prompt and effective. I have absolute confidence in Maggie."
Elspeth explained everything very clearly and made us feel comfortable.
I am happy with the service that I got and would recommend you to other potential clients.
I found Osbornes always very helpful and efficient.
We are very pleased with the services of Osbornes. Highly professional and through with close attention to detail.
I would like to thank Elspeth Neilson for her kindness and professionalism in dealing with all our legal requirements during this difficult period. It has been a pleasure working with her.
I would highly recommend Jan Atkinson in any probate matter and Osbornes Solicitors in any other legal matters.
Jan Atkinson is a very proficient lady whom I would highly recommend to anyone involved in probates.
Thanks for all your work and explaining everything so clearly. For any legal matters in the future I would not hesitate in instructing Osbornes.
We have found your service to date as the most informative we have come across.
Osbornes Solicitors always responded promptly to any request for information I had.
“Geoffrey’s affairs were dealt with just the right combination of friendliness and professionalism, which really helped.”
Jan Atkinson is confident with a straightforward approach. Her practice covers both contentious and non-contentious matters, including wealth planning and estate administration.
Naomi Angell is the doyenne of inter-country adoption and the font of all knowledge in this area.
Elspeth's assistance and services are much appreciated. Her instructions are clear and she managed the process well despite the many external delays beyond her control.
I wanted to say that I am grateful beyond words at the effort Jan Atkinson has been putting in towards fixing our situation.
I would like to thank everyone in my case for the excellent job!
Jan Atkinson has helped me so very much! Thank you!
[The Family Law department] handles significant matrimonial finance cases and complex nuptial agreements. Respected for its expertise in cross-border children law matters.
Elspeth was unfailingly kind, responsive and very patient. At times she was like a counsellor. She is a star.
This team is perhaps best known for its children work, often involving complex international dynamics.
Osbornes handles a growing stable of wealthy international clients. The firm receives glowing plaudits from clients.
"Mark Freedman receives a lot of instructions from clients based abroad, often relating to complex divorce proceedings. Sources say: “His main strengths are his enthusiastic passion for the job in hand and his total dedication to his clients.”
The Wills & Probate Team View the whole team
Jan Atkinson
Partner
Private ClientSuzanna Baker
Partner
Private ClientKatie de Swarte
Partner
Private ClientElspeth Neilson
Partner
Private ClientJenny Walsh
Partner
Private ClientFlorence Arbuthnott
Senior Associate
Private ClientLesley Boreham
Associate
Private ClientLaura Brogden
Solicitor
Private ClientTahsin Chasmawala
Associate
Private ClientElla Coles
Solicitor
Private ClientEllen Cordery
Trainee Solicitor
Private ClientJoseph Gunn
Associate
Private ClientRachel Hyneman
Senior Associate
Private ClientChloe Knight
Paralegal
Private ClientMaggie Leiper
Consultant
Private ClientJulia Lind Kenward
Solicitor
Private ClientAngela Marangone
Solicitor
Private ClientAdam Matthews
Senior Associate
Private ClientEllie McEvoy
Trainee Solicitor
Private ClientEllie Murray
Solicitor
Private ClientRoshni Pandya
Associate
Private ClientLaura Parkinson
Paralegal
Private ClientTishina Ramkishun
Solicitor
Private ClientDaniel Silverstone
Paralegal
Private ClientView the
whole team
