By: 17 July 2024
Wilkin Chapman strengthens succession planning team with new partner

Paul Horton joins Wilkin Chapman

Wilkin Chapman, the largest law firm in Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire, has announced the appointment of a new partner, Paul Horton, to its ranks. Paul Horton, a specialist in succession planning and a member of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP), joins the firm’s highly regarded wills, estates, tax and trusts team in Lincoln. His role will encompass a range of services, including the setup of wills, lifetime trusts, family investment companies, Lasting Power of Attorney, and cross-option shareholder planning.

 

Focus on agricultural clients

Paul, who has extensive experience as a trustee on many trusts nationwide, will undertake significant work in the region, particularly focusing on engaging with agricultural clients. His expertise in this area aligns seamlessly with the firm’s existing agricultural sector offerings, given that agriculture is one of the largest sectors in Lincolnshire.

Paul Horton, wills, estates, tax and trusts partner at Wilkin Chapman, commented, “Succession planning is a critical concern for business continuity in the agricultural sector, especially with a recent survey from the NFU confirming that 52% of British farmers don’t have a formal policy in place.”

“This is something I’ve seen a surge of interest in post-Covid, with people being more aware of the need to ensure their businesses are safeguarded should the worst happen,” he added. “I have a wealth of experience advising high-net-worth clients from many sectors and I am excited to further hone these skills, whilst serving businesses in the local community with a team that is growing, developing, motivated and collaborative.”

 

Strengthening the team

Lucy Butterfint, partner and head of wills, estates and trusts at Wilkin Chapman, expressed her enthusiasm about the new appointment, stating, “Paul is an excellent addition to our growing team throughout Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire. His status as an internationally recognised STEP member is a clear indicator of his indelible drive and attention to detail, which I’m certain he’ll put to good use advising a variety of clients throughout the region.”

Paul Horton added, “I especially enjoy working in the Lincolnshire market and Wilkin Chapman has an excellent reputation in the agricultural sector in particular, which makes my appointment an ideal fit.”

With over 24 years of experience in law, Paul joins Wilkin Chapman after spending the last few years at a large national practice. He qualified as a solicitor in 2002 and became a member of STEP in 2007.

 

Image: Provided by Carrington Communications.