Heather Gaunt Email & Phone Number

Macclesfield, Cheshire, United Kingdom

I am an Associate Director in the Private Client department, leading the wills, probate and trust department.

I was a partner in the Private Client Department for this Cheshire based leading niche Legal 500 firm. Over a period of 11 years I built an impressive client bank from both existing and new clients of the firm through effective marketing and networking initiatives. I grew the department’s fee income considerably through the implementation of a development plan that included the recruitment and development of other STEP qualified solicitors. Through my exceptional personal reputation I regularly received referrals from leading firms in the accountancy and financial services sectors, including Manchester and Leeds based private banks. These referrals related to high net worth individuals who require tax planning advice, the creation and management of trusts (I am frequently appointed as a professional Trustee), tax efficient wills and flexible powers of attorney. My other areas of expertise include will drafting to suit all circumstances, advice upon relevant tax law and issues concerning local authority care home costs, probate services and the management of Court of Protection applications.I was also responsible for the recruitment, management, development and appraisal of both professional and support colleagues.

Leeds, United Kingdom

I was recruited to this leading national practice to work within the Private Client Tax Department. Whilst there, my main area of focus was on advising private clients on capital tax planning, all aspects of trusts and estate administration. I was also heavily involved in tax efficient will drafting, dividend schemes and director's agreements.I was responsible for developing the trainee solicitors within the department. I was active in the Leeds STEP branch, presenting to the members on trust and tax issues.

Leeds, United Kingdom

I was head hunted to work in, and develop, a new role in the Tax Department of this leading UK accountancy practice. Working closely with the tax partners and directors, I delivered trust tax planning, trust tax compliance and administration advice to the firm's high net worth client base, providing an invaluable additional range of services to key clients.

Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom

I was employed to complete my articles with this national firm of solicitors. I worked across their Newcastle and Middlesbrough offices, gaining first class experience in a wide range of legal areas. On achieving my legal qualification I joined the firm's private client department.