Coodes expands Wills, Probate and Trusts team to meet growing demand

Coodes Solicitors has expanded its Wills, Probate and Trusts team to meet growing demand for its expertise. Alan Gates joins the South West law firm’s Penzance office, bringing with him 17 years’ experience.

Alan, a Chartered Legal Executive, is a full member of STEP, the global professional body that sets the standard for lawyers, accountants and financial advisors who help families plan for their futures. He is also an accredited member of Solicitors for the Elderly and a Dementia Friend and holds an Older Client Care in Practice Award.

Alan has lived in Penzance for 25 years and joins Coodes from Redruth firm Thurstan Hoskin, where he was head of the Private Client department. In addition to expertise in estate planning, wills and power of attorney, he has several years’ experience in advising on tax and trusts.

Sarah Cornish, Partner and Head of the Wills, Probate and Trusts department at Coodes Solicitors, said: “Alan’s appointment is part of our expansion as a result of growing demand from clients in West Cornwall and it is fantastic to welcome him to our team.

“Alan has an impressive set of qualifications and experience and, being locally-based, is part of the community. He brings a wealth of experience of working with the diverse range of people we support, including elderly clients, and is highly knowledgeable on tax planning.”

Alan said: “Coodes has an excellent reputation, both for its quality of service to clients and as an employer. That is what attracted me to the role, along with the opportunity to work for a large regional firm with a bigger team. This is a great opportunity for me to progress in my career in my home town.

“I particularly enjoy the face to face contact that comes with this area of law. Many of the clients I work with are older and some are vulnerable. It takes time and patience to ensure they get the service they deserve. I really pride myself on providing that service and helping people to make the right decisions for themselves and their families.”

Based in Coodes’ network of offices across Cornwall and Devon, the Wills, Probate and Trusts team is recommended by leading legal directory Chambers & Partners. With several accredited members of STEP and Solicitors for the Elderly, the team advises clients on all aspects of managing their affairs, from making a Will, to Lasting Power of Attorney, tax planning and creating a trust.