Coodes Solicitors’ Mel Grose shortlisted for top national award

Coodes Solicitors is celebrating the shortlisting of Mel Grose, Head of Personal Disputes, for “Contentious Practitioner of the Year” at the prestigious British Wills & Probate Awards 2025.

The nomination places Mel among the UK’s top legal professionals in this specialist area, recognising her outstanding expertise, client care and leadership within one of the fastest-growing departments at the South West law firm.

Mel joined Coodes in 2014 and is a Partner who leads a thriving team specialising in disputes arising out of wills and inheritance matters. This largely includes challenging or defending the validity of a will, claiming financial provision from someone’s estate if that person has not been adequately provided for. Disputes concerning attorneys and/or personal representative for fraud and/or financial abuse are becoming increasingly common as are applications to remove them.

Mel frequently represents clients at mediations and deals with matters in the High Court and Court of Appeal, but her focus is always based on the client’s objective and resolution. Her work has helped transform the team into a nationally recognised practice known for delivering excellent outcomes for clients in what can be emotionally charged cases – involving loss and complex interpersonal dynamics.

In the last five years, the contribution of the Inheritance and Trusts Disputes team has played a key role in Coodes’ wider growth into an £11 million-plus business, placing it among the top four per cent of UK law firms by turnover.

Mel’s approach blends legal excellence with understanding. She is known for guiding clients towards dignified, lasting solutions, whether through negotiation, mediation or litigation. Her ability to lead multi-party negotiations, manage emotionally sensitive matters, and uphold high ethical standards has attracted referrals from national firms, barristers, mediators and former clients alike.

Reflecting Coodes’ community values, Mel’s team regularly supports individuals who are overlooked by other firms, offering flexible funding routes, including conditional fee agreements when Legal Aid is unavailable. The department’s work is especially vital in the South West, which has areas of high deprivation with inconsistent access to specialist legal help.

Commenting on her nomination, Mel Grose said: “I am delighted to be recognised in this way. It is a reflection of the hard work and compassion my team shows every day. We pride ourselves on providing not just legal solutions, but genuine support to clients during some of life’s most difficult times.”

Elise Alma, Chair of Coodes Solicitors, added: “Mel embodies the values at the heart of Coodes; exceptional legal skill, principled service and a deep commitment to her clients and team. Her leadership has strengthened not just her department but our entire firm. This is well-earned recognition for her professionalism, her compassionate approach to her clients and her contribution to access to justice in the region.”

The winners of the British Wills & Probate Awards 2025 will be announced at a ceremony in Manchester on 9 October.