DMH Stallard appoints private client partner

South East law firm DMH Stallard has appointed Joanna Watson-James as a partner in its Guildford private client team.

Joanna joins from MacDonald Oates LLP, where she spent more than seven years advising clients on private client matters. 

A STEP-qualified solicitor, she previously trained at Stevens & Bolton LLP and brings extensive experience supporting individuals, families and high-net-worth clients across Surrey, West Sussex and Hampshire.

She specialises in estate and succession planning, with expertise in complex inheritance tax matters, and works closely with accountants, financial advisers and investment managers to develop tailored strategies for clients.

Joanna said: “We’re seeing a real shift in the conversations clients are having with us. 

“Younger clients are increasingly recognising the importance of having wills and lasting powers of attorney in place, particularly here in the South given the value of local assets, while blended families are increasingly making sure their wills reflect their family structure. 

“Having grown up in Guildford and spent almost eight years building experience across West Sussex and Hampshire, it’s fantastic to be back home.

“I’m looking forward to joining DMH Stallard’s private client team at such an exciting time, and to helping clients navigate these issues with confidence.”

Joanna’s appointment comes as demand for specialist inheritance and succession planning advice continues to rise following changes affecting pensions, business property relief and agricultural property relief. 

Sara McGrigor, partner and head of private client Guildford at DMH Stallard, added: “The private client landscape is evolving rapidly, with clients seeking increasingly sophisticated advice on succession planning, trusts, estate administration and wealth preservation. 

“Joanna's technical expertise, client-focused approach and experience advising on complex private wealth matters make her an excellent addition to the team as we continue to expand our offering across Guildford and the wider South East.”

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