Bespoke wills, estate planning and probate services introduced with the appointment of new BLM partner James Beresford

Within the opening six months of the initial team arriving at BLM, the insurance and commercial risk firm has extended its client offer with the addition of private wealth services, specifically in Wills, estate planning, trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney and estate administration advice. James Beresford joins the Commercial Advisory and Private Wealth team as a partner.

James has an established background in dealing with the administration of complex estates and advising clients on estate planning matters including the drafting of Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney. He is a wealth preservation specialist and assists clients with inheritance tax planning and business owners on succession planning. Passionate about his area of specialism, James lectures post graduate students at BBP Law School on Wills and estate administration matters as well as other solicitors for the Solicitors Group and MBL Seminars.  The addition of James to the Commercial Advisory team extends the firm’s ability to execute a multi-disciplinary approach and to continue to target nationwide growth.

 Welcoming BLM’s new enhanced client offering, senior partner Matthew Harrington commented on the innovative approach and drive the Commercial Advisory lawyers have brought into the firm: “James joins a team which has already established a winning client portfolio within the firm. Working across our network will allow James to develop our national Private Wealth capability and will help maintain the momentum behind the Commercial Advisory team. This addition to the team complements the existing energy and insight within the firm, and, reinforces our desire to diversify and innovate for future growth.

 “The Commercial Advisory group has an admirable, collaborative way of working, and an outcome focused ethos which works to our clients’ advantage.  By extending these services to private wealth and family law and building on our range of services , I have no doubt this will enhance our overall prospects and ambition.”

Siri Siriwardene, BLM’s head of Commercial Advisory and Private Wealth confirmed the progress of this business stream, in saying: “James shares the values of the existing Commercial Advisory team, bringing significant expertise of his practice area and a client centric approach. We are building a team and a capability that puts the client first whilst emphasising a common sense approach that delivers positive outcomes. I’m delighted to welcome James as a senior member of the team.”