Appleby‘s houses an ’excellent’ private client and trusts team, known for its ‘real depth and expertise in trust litigation’. High net-worth individuals, institutional trustees, banks, and charities all frequently instruct the team. Charles Davies works extensively on complex trust disputes, often involving novel points of law, while Mark Holligon has distinct dispute resolution expertise. The ’detail-oriented’ and ‘approachable’ Melissa Wong advises on the full spectrum of trust law and regularly assists financial institutions with authority and capacity issues. Erin Trimble-Cregeen is a key name for trustees and beneficiaries, handling a wide range of contentious trust issues.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The Isle of Man team reflects the expertise in trusts that Appleby are known for globally. The team makes the firm the go-to firm for trustees and trust corporations involved in disputes in the Isle of Man.’

  • ‘Mark Holligon provides excellent leadership to the focused team, ensuring a client-focused approach. He is ably assisted by Erin Trimble-Creegan.’

  • ‘An excellent team who have real depth and expertise in trust litigation They are currently handling complex and high-value trust cases and do so with ease.’

  • ‘Mark Holligon has huge experience as an advocate and is good on his feet. Erin Trimble-Cregeen is an excellent trust lawyer with a pragmatic approach to matters and excellent client-handling skills.’

  • ‘I have mostly worked with Melissa Wong who is exceptional when it comes to cross-border private client practice. She is my go-to lawyer for any IOM-related queries and my clients have always been impressed by her.’

  • ‘The knowledge and experience of the team at Appleby is varied and so they can assist with any queries concerning trust and company law as well as commercial transactions. Appleby has a strong local presence despite being multi-jurisdictional.’

  • ‘The level of service stands out. Melissa Wong in particular makes time to assist with general queries and not just when specifically engaged in a client matter. She has expertise in trust law and our mutual clients have been very satisfied with the work provided.’

  • ‘The depth of expertise, the team dynamics/internal collaboration, the reputational track record and having deep roots within the community make Appleby stand out from any other law firm.’

Work highlights

  • Advised the settlor of a trust worth £100m on a complex restructuring.
  • Advising an international humanitarian charity with an annual income of approx. £290m.
  • Acted for trustee in £200m+ trust dispute.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Charles Davies, Mark Holligon

Other key lawyers

Melissa Wong, Erin Trimble-Cregeen