Ramsdens strengthens private client team

Yorkshire law firm Ramsdens Solicitors has strengthened its private client team with the appointment of Charlene Vilia as partner at its Holmfirth office.

Charlene joins from Flint Bishop, which acquired Lupton Fawcett, where she was a partner in the private client team.

Her arrival marks a return to Ramsdens, having begun her legal career with the firm nearly 20 years ago as a paralegal before qualifying as a solicitor.

She brings extensive experience advising individuals and families on estate planning, inheritance tax and succession matters.

In her new role, Charlene will provide advice on wills, lasting powers of attorney, inheritance tax planning and the administration of estates and trusts.

Charlene said: “Ramsdens played a pivotal role in shaping my early legal career, and I'm really excited to return as a partner in the private client team.

“Although Ramsdens has expanded significantly over the years, it has retained its personable, approachable and friendly culture.

“This is an essential feature underpinning its market-leading private client offering where meaningful, client-first relationships combine with robust, practical legal advice.”

Charlene’s appointment strengthens Ramsdens’ private client offering across West Yorkshire, supporting individuals and families with estate planning and wealth protection.

The firm operates 11 offices across Yorkshire, providing legal services to individuals and businesses throughout the region.

Jodie Wielgus, partner and co-head of the private wealth and succession department, added: “Charlene and I started our legal careers together at Ramsdens, and it’s great to have her back at this exciting time as demand for our specialist advice continues to grow.

“Alongside growing our private client teams, which has become one of the largest in Yorkshire, we’ve significantly enhanced our client offering by bringing in overlapping specialisms to provide a robust portfolio of legal advice.

“Private client work is ultimately about helping people plan with confidence and protect what matters most to them. 

“Whether that is preparing a Will, planning for inheritance tax, putting powers of attorney in place or supporting families after a bereavement, it is a privilege to guide clients through those important moments."

“Having Charlene and her wealth of experience on board will really strengthen our ability to support clients across Yorkshire and beyond.”

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