We are delighted to announce that Emma Bell has been appointed as the new head of Private Client at Bookers & Bolton.
Emma has been practising as a solicitor for almost 20 years and has extensive experience in all areas of private client law, providing specialist legal advice on Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and other estate administration matters.
She has been with the firm for the past year, having joined Bookers & Bolton in August 2024.
Here, we find out a bit more about Emma.
When and where did you qualify?
I studied at Lincoln University, followed by the College of Law York, and qualified as a solicitor in October 2007.
How long have you been at Bookers & Bolton?
I joined Bookers & Bolton in August 2024.
What areas of law do you specialise in?
I advise on a wide range of private client legal issues, including estate administration, Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and anything estate planning related.
What are your areas of specialisation within private client?
My particular specialism is dealing with complex estates.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I most enjoy helping clients deal with estate administration when they are going through a difficult period of grief.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
It can sometimes be challenging to think of ways to deal with complex assets or family situations to give the clients the outcome they desire.
However, I like a challenge and navigating these issues is extremely rewarding.
Do you have any tips for clients seeking private client law advice?
Be proactive. Don’t leave things to the last minute. Make sure you have a valid LPA in place and your Will is up to date whilst there is no question about mental capacity.
Tell us about your typical day.
My day generally starts with checking client emails that have come in overnight and dealing with any post. I will also have a catch-up with the team and look at what needs prioritising that day.
If I have client appointments, I’ll check that I have all the information I need in advance. These are then followed up by making file notes, preparing any legal documents and asking the team to carry out various other tasks.
What do you think about the future of private client work?
I think there will always be a need for a personal expert in this area to help guide families when a loved one passes away.
It may well be the case that clients access our services differently, for example, through remote appointments or contact over email, but we will always have a face-to-face presence for clients who prefer it.
What skills do you need to be a successful lawyer?
Calm and logical are probably the two skills that come to mind. However, it is also hugely important to be kind and caring. We are there at a difficult time for clients and offer more than just legal help.
What advice would you give someone who wants to become a solicitor or work in the legal industry?
I’d recommend getting practical work experience as early as you can. My training contract was with the firm where I completed my work experience when I was at school.
Read some of Emma’s five-star reviews on Review Solicitors here.
Private Client Solicitors Alton
At Bookers & Bolton, our private client team has a reputation for offering high-quality advice in all areas of estate planning, management and administration.
Our specialist private client solicitors offer clear, tailored solutions and help with a wide range of client matters, including:
- Will Drafting Will Drafting.
- Probate and Estate Administration.
- Intestacy – Dying without a Will.
- Powers of Attorney.
- Deputyship and Court of Protection.
- Elderly Client Services.
- Deed of Trust.
To speak to Emma or another one of our private client lawyers in Alton, Hampshire, please get in touch with us on 01420 558335, email us at enquiries@bookersandbolton.co.uk or make an online enquiry here.
