About
William works with ultra high net worth families and trustees to help them protect, manage and pass on wealth over the long term. Many of his clients own established and well known businesses and value advice that reflects both commercial reality and family priorities.
A defining feature of William’s practice is the depth of his client relationships. In several cases, he has advised the same families for more than two decades, building the trust and understanding that only comes from investing time and care over the long term.
Tax and succession planning for business owners
William regularly helps clients structure their affairs in a way that supports continuity, control and long term stewardship.
His work often involves balancing personal wealth planning with business interests, ensuring that tax efficiency does not come at the expense of flexibility or future decision making.
Trusts and long term wealth planning
A core part of William’s practice is advising on the creation, restructuring and ongoing management of trust arrangements. He works closely with families and trustees to ensure structures remain fit for purpose as circumstances, legislation and family dynamics evolve.
William is frequently asked to help resolve complex trust and tax issues, particularly where assets are substantial or structures have developed over many years.
Urban estates, property and complex family assets
William has particular experience advising families with urban estates and significant property holdings, often where assets are closely connected to family businesses or long term investment strategies.
His advice reflects an understanding of how property, tax and succession planning intersect, and the importance of taking a measured, long term view.
Recognition
William is recognised in Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for his private client work. Clients describe him as “very charming” with “a reassuring manner”, noting his problem solving ability and responsiveness.
He is also listed as a Top Recommended Tax Lawyer in the Spear’s 500 (2024).
Practising jurisdiction
William is admitted to practise in England and Wales.
Experience
- Designing and implementing practical and effective succession plans for families with significant assets, ensuring the wealth is protected for future generations against the threats of tax, possible divorce, family disputes and financially immature heirs.
- Advising owners of high-profile and successful family businesses on pre-sale structuring to incentivise key management and to maximise returns, whilst also effecting tax efficient succession plans for the family.
- Advising the trustees of significant family trusts to enable them to carry out their responsibilities in such a way as to meet the beneficiaries’ requirements.
- Leading a complex court application for trustees of a valuable family trust to ensure the profitable business could be preserved in its current form to avoid a forced sale.
