Given that it takes a minimum of six years to qualify as a solicitor, and most of those who qualify will specialise in a particular area of law, you may wonder why many then go on to study for further accreditation. The reason is simple – it is a mark of technical excellence, indicating good practice, adherence to high professional standards and depth of knowledge. Within our private client team, we have several accredited lawyers in contentious probate (or wills disputes); wills, trust and tax; and family law. Here, we explain each accreditation and why it matters to you.
STEP: the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners
The STEP diploma takes a minimum of two years to achieve and is widely regarded as the gold standard in estate planning. It involves studying four modules covering trusts, tax and estate administration (including international elements). Lawyers who have successfully completed the Diploma must then have a minimum of two years’ mid to senior level experience to become a full member of STEP.
This rigorous process means that a STEP-qualified solicitor will tailor their advice to your specific circumstances, whether protecting a vulnerable family member, ringfencing specific assets for your children, or preserving family wealth for future generations. These areas often involve intricate legal and tax structures. A STEP-qualified solicitor ensures everything is correctly drafted, registered, and compliant with HMRC requirements. By using a STEP-qualified solicitor, you can have complete confidence in their experience and be assured that your wishes are carried out professionally and correctly.
Our STEP-accredited lawyers - Michelle Harvey and Siobhan Sibley, (with Katie Deakin currently working towards accreditation) - combine technical excellence with a commitment to clear communication and personal service.
ACTAPS: Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists
We have seen this area of law grow significantly over the last few years, driven in part by the increase in the number of ‘blended’ families resulting from second and third marriages. Another growing area of practice for the team is the number of Inheritance Act 1975 claims against estates by family members and dependants who have not been reasonably provided for under the terms of someone’s will.
The ACTAPS accreditation is the benchmark for specialists in this field. It takes at least two years to become accredited, with five modules being studied. Full membership can only be achieved by demonstrating substantial experience of advising on contested wills and estate disputes. We have one of the largest and most experienced contentious probate teams in the region, with four full ACTAPS members (Martin Oliver, Katie Alsop, Anna Sutcliffe and Gemma Carson) and a fifth lawyer (Charlotte Kahrman) currently studying for her ACTAPS accreditation. Working with them, you can be confident that your claim will be properly assessed and managed from beginning to end.
Resolution
Divorce is one of the most emotionally charged life events anyone can experience. Despite the change in the law towards ‘no-fault’ divorce, many couples who are separating find the whole process difficult and upsetting to navigate. Resolution is a national organisation, originally founded to encourage family lawyers to adopt a non-confrontational approach to resolving issues between separating couples without having to involve the courts.
To become accredited, applicants must demonstrate thorough knowledge of substantive family law, proficiency in procedure and practice, and proven skill and experience in handling complex cases. Applicants must complete two rigorous assessments within three years and, once accredited, are expected to follow Resolution’s Code of Practice and use the Guides to Good Practice to ensure that they adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct. Karen Brennan, our Head of Family Law, is a Resolution-accredited lawyer and her mission is to adopt a constructive, empathetic approach, helping her clients to minimise conflict and achieve a better outcome for their family.
Why accreditation matters
Choosing a professionally accredited lawyer means you’ll be advised by an expert in their field, and one who is recognised as such by their peers. In emotionally or financially sensitive areas of law such as wills, estates, or family matters, this reassurance is invaluable. You know that you will receive up to date advice tailored to your individual circumstances, clear communication and to an acknowledged professional standard.
Please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of our private client team if you would like to learn more about any of the accreditations mentioned or how we can support you.
The information provided in this article is provided for general information purposes only, and does not provide definitive advice. It does not amount to legal or other professional advice and so you should not rely on any information contained here as if it were such advice.
Wright Hassall does not accept any responsibility for any loss which may arise from reliance on any information published here. Definitive advice can only be given with full knowledge of all relevant facts. If you need such advice please contact a member of our professional staff.
The information published across our Knowledge Base is correct at the time of going to press.
