Freeths has an excellent reputation in contentious and non-contentious private client matters. The team advises on complex, and often international matters. A source praises the depth of the team, saying: "Freeths have a significant number of knowledgeable and talented individuals at all levels of seniority and a strength-in-depth within their contentious probate team."

Another interviewee explains: "The firm is large enough to have a good breadth of expertise, but this is enhanced by the attitude of the people. There is an entrepreneurial approach with a willingness to solve problems rather than just provide services."

Sarah Foster is managing partner in Oxford and joint head of the firm's private client services division. She advises on trusts and probate disputes.

Nigel Roots has considerable experience advising on a range of private client matters, including estate administration, tax and trusts. He also advises on charity matters and Court of Protection cases.

Sally Goodger represents clients in contested trust and estate matters. A source explains: "Sally is extremely knowledgeable in her field, considered in her approach to a case and sensitive in her interactions with clients. Her judgement, bred from experience, is excellent and instils confidence."

Louise Lewis advises on estate administrations, wills and lasting powers of attorney. "Louise is a hugely committed lawyer with great empathy and a brilliant grasp of detail. She is highly intelligent and works closely with her clients to find the best possible solutions," enthuses a source, who adds: "She is a skilled listener and excellent at handling difficult situations. She is able to find pragmatic solutions and has a terrific command of her brief. She is an absolute pleasure to work with."

Jane Maitland is a consultant in the firm's private client team. She advises on estate planning for high net worth individuals, and also acts as executor and fiduciary for estates and trusts.

Lisa Mark-Bell is "technically very strong," says a source, who continues: "She has a deep understanding of tax and legal matters impacting clients." Mark-Bell advises on estate and trust planning, and is the joint head of the firm's Oxford-based trusts, estates and tax team. An interviewee notes: "Lisa is straightforward and approachable. She thinks of the client's interests and has the knack of coming up with a solution to every problem."