We have strengthened our private wealth & succession offering with the appointment of director Amanda Simmonds, who joins our 20-strong specialist team.

Amanda brings 38 years’ experience as a private client solicitor, advising on all aspects of private client work, including wills, trusts and related documents, estate administration, lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) and mental capacity issues, as well as providing advice on inheritance, capital gains and income tax planning.

She has particular expertise in advising family businesses on succession planning and is well versed in complex trust structures, trustee duties, offshore trusts and cross border matters.

Amanda is a member of Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and led the team who drafted the STEP Standard Provisions 3rd edition. She has also been awarded a STEP Founder’s Award, recognising her as an extraordinary volunteer who has gone above and beyond in her dedication to the Society, significantly contributing to its success.

Amanda said: “I’m excited to join a team recognised for its collaborative approach, extensive knowledge and personal service. Schofield Sweeney is known for putting clients at the centre of everything they do, and I look forward to working with new clients and building on existing relationships.”

John Feaster, partner in our private wealth & succession team, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Amanda to our team. She has a stellar reputation in the industry and brings a wealth of experience to our 20-strong department, which now includes nine full STEP members and two chartered tax advisers. I’m excited to work with Amanda to develop opportunities with existing and new clients in the ever-changing world of capital taxes.”