One of Dorset’s leading law firms has appointed an experienced Private Client solicitor to join its expanding team.
Bournemouth-born Harriet Dormer (née Mitchell) grew up in the Talbot Woods area of the town, before heading to nearby Southampton University to study politics. She later attended Oxford Brooks University, where she completed a Graduate Diploma in Law and concluded her studies at BPP University, London, where she gained a distinction in her Legal Practice Course (LPC).
On her return to Bournemouth, Harriet joined a local firm where she completed her training contract and found her niche in private client work, before making the move to Steele Raymond.
Speaking on her new role, Harriet said:
“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Steele Raymond. The firm offers a fantastic hybrid between high-quality work and a friendly atmosphere. Before accepting the role I had already met with all of the Partners at the firm; they made me feel really welcome which certainly helped me to make my decision.”
Harriet specialises in helping clients with probate and estate administration, Will drafting, Lasting Power of Attorney preparation and Enduring Power of Attorney registration. In addition, Harriet is also experienced in dealing with Court of Protection applications, a process by which a person’s interests are safeguarded if they lack the mental capacity to take decisions for themselves.
Sue Adams, Partner and Private Client Team Leader, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Harriet to the firm and to the private client team. As a STEP qualified solicitor, Harriet brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise and promises to be a fantastic addition to our ever-expanding firm.”
As property prices continue to rise, Harriet explained the prevailing importance of trustworthy legal advice: “There are many people who are now finding themselves over the inheritance tax threshold and should really seek advice on managing this. If we can guide clients through the management of their estates, not only can they hope to avoid potentially costly pitfalls but can stand to save significant sums of money.”
Asked about her work in probate, wills and trusts, Harriet said: “What has become clear to me is that the law does not always reflect the nuances of modern family life; the ‘traditional’ family structure has been surpassed by all sorts of different arrangements. With this in mind, it has never been more important for people to make their own provisions through a fully-qualified lawyer, rather than relying on somewhat outdated legal provisions to protect them.”
She continued: “Where wills are concerned, my advice would be to get the ball rolling with a qualified solicitor as soon as possible. It may sound morbid, but we never know what might happen to us and the protection of a professionally drafted will is a worthwhile investment for all concerned.”
For more information on the trusted legal advice Steele Raymond offers on tax, trusts, wills and probate, contact Sue Adams on 1202 294 561 or email sueadams@steeleraymond.co.uk.