Charles Russell Speechlys LLP continues to prove itself as a leading firm in the sector. The team regularly advises clients with landed estates on various matters, including tax structuring, heritage property issues, and complex trusts. The team in Guildford is co-headed by Duncan Elson and Oliver Auld, who are both recommended for litigation relating to trusts. William Marriott is noted for his experience in handling high-value transactions for country houses. Tom Denham-Smith is a further standout lawyer, who is a member of the Agricultural Law Association; he regularly assists clients with succession disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team has excellent technical and legal knowledge coupled with a significant amount of commercial awareness. They have an eye to what the client wants to achieve and what is possible.’
‘Tom Denham-Smith and Duncan Elson are great technical lawyers who work extremely hard. Duncan in particular has excellent commercial awareness and knows what needs to be done to achieve the objectives of the client.’
‘They have excellent communication, and they get the job done!’
'Duncan Elson is hugely experienced with a strong eye for achieving his client's objectives.'
- 'Tom Denham-Smith is a star.'
'Their team is very knowledgeable and professional.'
‘They have a commanding presence in the southeast, particularly regarding landed estates.’
‘Duncan Elson has buckets of experience and expertise, and Tom Denham-Smith is superb.’
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Duncan Elson, Oliver Auld