Expertise
- Legacy planning, including wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and Inheritance Tax (IHT) mitigation strategies.
- Complex estate administration involving business and agricultural property relief, trusts, and cross-border issues.
- Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 claims.
- Disputed Wills, including issues around testamentary capacity, knowledge and approval, undue influence, fraudulent calumny, and will construction.
- Statutory Wills.
- Promissory and proprietary estoppel claims.
- Probate disputes and removal of executors.
- Trust disputes, including challenging trustees' decisions and removal of trustees.
- Property co-ownership and Trust of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act (TOLATA) disputes.
- Challenging attorney and deputy appointments and actions.
- Professional negligence arising out of legacy matters.
- Court of Protection applications, ensuring vulnerable individuals’ best interests are protected.
Derek Bryer qualified as a solicitor in 2012 in England and Wales after studying Law at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth.
With over 17 years of experience, Derek has developed a deep expertise in legacy planning, including wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and Inheritance Tax (IHT) strategies.
Derek also handles complex estate administrations involving business and agricultural property relief, trusts, and cross-border issues. His expertise extends to advising on contentious matters arising from these, including Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 claims and Disputed Wills, bringing a comprehensive understanding of both non-contentious and contentious legacy issues.
Derek takes pride in crafting tailored solutions that reflect each client's unique individual needs. He finds fulfilment in simplifying complex issues, providing clarity and reassurance to clients during significant moments in their lives. He values the opportunity to make a meaningful difference, using his technical expertise and empathetic approach to help clients navigate life’s pivotal decisions with confidence and care.
Formerly an associate member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS), Derek brings both depth and breadth of knowledge to his role at Laurus.
