England - South West • Private client

VWV

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VWV is a key port of call for a deep roster of clients, who turn to the firm for its ‘exceptionally strong contentious trusts and probate team, with vast experience in a wide variety of issues’. The practice is particularly noted for its legacy protection and Court of Protection work, which significantly bolsters its offering to a number of higher education institutions and national charities. Michelle Rose heads the team; she regularly deals with matters involving household names and acts as an independent court appointed administrator. Fiona Lawrence, who has extensive experience in complex cross-border disputes, is also recommended.  

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘One of the largest teams of contentious trusts and estates specialists in the South West. They have the resources to manage substantial disputes.’

  • ‘Julia Hardy is an exceptional senior associate producing partner level work. Julia tactical judgment and negotiating abilities are a real asset in litigation.'

  • ‘VWV have an exceptionally strong contentious trusts and probate team, with vast experience in the wide variety of issues that arise in this field.' 

  • ‘Michelle Rose is a hugely experienced team leader, who brings sound judgment and a pragmatic approach to all her cases. She is ably supported by her team, including the excellent Julia Hardy; Julia is intelligent and meticulous and has such a reassuring manner with clients.'

  • ‘Michelle Rose is a regional heavyweight in the practice area.'

  • ‘Fiona Lawrence is a calm individual who has guided us through a complex case with expertise and resilience. Her advice has always been commercial and pragmatic, and she explains complex matters in clear terms.’

Work highlights

  • Administered the £10m McDonald estate, which was the subject of a Court of Appeal decision on an out of time application in a proprietary estoppel dispute.
  • Acted for the son and eldest daughter of Terry Jones, settling a complex challenge to the validity of Terry's will and a property transfer. The estate is worth in excess of £5m.
  • Acted for the Administrators of a £48 million landed estate in a High Court blessing application.

Lawyers

Leading individuals

Next Generation Partners

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Michelle Rose

Other key lawyers

Fiona Lawrence, Marianne Nankervis, Sally Rushton, Julia Hardy, Vicky Ward