Private client.

Partner

Rupert advises on a wide variety of private client matters including the drafting and administration of trusts, drawing up wills and powers of attorney, probate, charity law and family governance.

He specialises in advising the owners of landed estates, farms and other family businesses on capital tax planning and succession issues, and acts as trustee of a number of significant estates in England and Wales.

Rupert has particular expertise in putting in place structures to maximise agricultural and business property relief, as well as the conditional exemption of heritage property, including works of art, buildings and land. He also provides strategic advice to individuals, families and their trustees, whose interests often cover a broad range of activities and business enterprises including in-hand farming; agricultural, residential and commercial lettings; holiday lets; land development; forestry; the exploitation of sporting and mineral rights and renewable energy sources; and the commercial use of historic houses.

Rupert is ranked in Chambers UK Guide 2023 and is recognised as a 'Leading Individual' in the Legal 500 2023 edition for his work on agriculture and rural affairs.

Rupert trained at Stephenson Harwood and moved to Forsters on qualification in 2003. He became a Partner in 2011.

Law Society; STEP; Country Land & Business Association (CLA); Agricultural Law Association (ALA).

The King’s School, Canterbury; University of St Andrews (1999 MA).

History, fishing, shooting and conservation.