Ramsdens Solicitors has appointed an experienced private client lawyer to strengthen the firm’s estate planning, inheritance tax and succession offering across its West Yorkshire offices.
Charlene Vilia joins from Flint Bishop, which acquired Lupton Fawcett LLP, where she held a Partner role in the firm’s private client team.
She returns to Ramsdens, which has 11 offices throughout Yorkshire, after beginning her legal career there nearly 20 years ago as a paralegal at the firm before qualifying as a solicitor.
During her career, Charlene has developed extensive experience in Private Client matters and advised individuals and families throughout Yorkshire. She is known for her calm and caring approach and dedication to understanding her clients’ needs, supporting them through challenging and sensitive times in their lives.
Charlene will be based at the firms long established Holmfirth office where she will provide advice and assistance on a wide range of Private Client matters. This includes the preparation of Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, inheritance tax planning and the administration of estates and trusts.
Commenting on her appointment, 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.”
Welcoming her to the firm, Jodie Wielgus, Partner and co-Head of the Private Wealth and Succession department, said: “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.”
Image provided by Ramsdens Solicitors
