Hunt & Coombs LLP joins the ranking due to the growing workload of contentious probate matters handled by key litigation partner Helen Townsend in Peterborough. She is 'easy to deal with and a sensible, practical lawyer', and her completion of the ACTAPS course makes her the key point of contact. Vastly experienced senior associate Norman Hunter-Goulder in St Neots provides capable support for contentious probate matters, as well as general commercial litigation and employment law.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'I feel fortunate to have been introduced to Hunt & Coombs. Helen Townsend has an empathy of understanding which can only be achieved by experience and age group.'
  • ‘I have dealt with Hunt and Coombs Peterborough over the past two years for two separate and distinct issues. Both occasions I have found the practice efficient and professional and very attentive to my needs. The work they put in and the feedback is very good.’

  • 'Helen Townsend is a proficient lawyer who gives good advice and is a good communicator. Helen has also uncovered vital evidence due to her diligent work and continues to guide and advise in an ongoing dispute.’
  • ‘I feel the business offers an all-encompassing service. If you have a complex situation they are well placed to supply the required service.'

  • ‘Very good knowledge and expertise - Helen Townsend is good at understanding disputes in this niche area. Helen is easy to deal with and is a sensible, practical lawyer who is very costs conscious in her approach.’

Work highlights

  • Claim for a beneficial interest, monies owed to her by her deceased partner and a claim for provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act.
  • Acted on behalf of the client in relation to an application to the probate registry for a subpoena against the solicitors holding the Will of his deceased mother, who refused to release the Will without the other executor's approval.
  • Acting for the executors of the estate in relation to allegations by the deceased's disinherited sons that the will was invalid on grounds of capacity and delusion.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Helen Townsend

Other key lawyers

Norman Hunter-Goulder