Chambers Review
5 Stone Buildings is a set highly regarded for its expertise in private client matters. Members handle both contentious and non-contentious cases for HMRC and wealthy individuals, and advise on a wide range of matters such as the Inheritance Tax Act and onshore and offshore trusts. "Complex and sophisticated matters are the barristers' forte, and they have a clear communication style," says an interviewee. "They always come back promptly to queries, even initial approaches which may not result in an instruction."
"Paul Jennings, the senior clerk, is terrific," says a source.
"5 Stone Buildings' clerks are extremely responsive."
"They provide an excellent bridge between instructing solicitors and counsel, and produce a good service which is greatly appreciated by our clients."
Notable Practitioners
Amanda Hardy KC is a highly respected tax silk with a strong litigation and advisory practice. Her private client work focuses on offshore trusts, domicile issues and pension tax.
"A very engaging, clear, non-fussy advocate."
"Amanda really puts the client at ease and explains complex issues in a straightforward manner that they can understand. She is also prepared to litigate, which is a positive should clients need it. She brings a wealth of experience and provides practical advice on how to present matters to HMRC. I have also found her very responsive."
Ruth Hughes is a well-established junior who assists clients with contentious tax disputes, including customs work.
"Extremely competent and someone with a very big brain."
"She's always making points in conference that no one else has even thought about."
"She always provides excellent advice and is a pleasure to work with."
Oliver Marre assists clients with complex contentious and non-contentious tax matters. His work includes advising on inheritance tax planning and trusts, and he also tackles tax issues arising from high-value divorce proceedings.
"Oliver is very thorough, solution-focused and client-friendly."
"Oliver provides pragmatic, expert tax advice in an accessible style which is appreciated by both advisers and clients."