Solicitor at Birkett Long LLP
Claire Read
Solicitor - PARTNER, HEAD OF PRIVATE CLIENT
SRA ID: 201640
I care about clients and finding a solution that is right for them. I constantly deliver on the friendly and personal approach! I break down complex tax areas into understandable language. I specialise in trusts, administration of estates, and tax planning for the elderly, vulnerable and disabled. I first chose the area of probate because I got a real sense of satisfaction in knowing that I was helping someone in a time of need. I am Head of the Private Client Department, a Partner, TEP (Trusts and Estate Practitioner – STEP),and I am the Vice Chair of the Essex Branch of STEP.
Faviell House, 1 Coval Wells, CM1 1WZ
Licensed for 24 years
Practice Areas
Wills, Trusts & Probate
- Wills, Trusts & Probate 100%
11 Client Reviews
Overall experience
- Value For Money
- Approachability
About Claire Read
I care about clients and finding a solution that is right for them. I constantly deliver on the friendly and personal approach! I break down complex tax areas into understandable language. I specialise in trusts, administration of estates, and tax planning for the elderly, vulnerable and disabled. I first chose the area of probate because I got a real sense of satisfaction in knowing that I was helping someone in a time of need. I am Head of the Private Client Department, a Partner, TEP (Trusts and Estate Practitioner – STEP),and I am the Vice Chair of the Essex Branch of STEP.
Languages Spoken: English
Contact Claire Read
Publications
Publication name
Title
Date
Legal 500
Hall of fame and Leading individual
2023
Speaking Engagements
Conference Name
Title
Date
Mencap City of Chelmsford
Lasting Powers of Attorney
2023
Resume
LICENSE
Country
Status
Acquired
Updated
United Kingdom
Currently Registered
15/08/00
03/01/24
We found no instances of professional misconduct for this solicitor
WORK EXPERIENCE
Title
Name
Duration
SRA-approved manager - Member
Birkett Long
?-present
Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP)
STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners)
?-present
Excellent ,friendly solicitor knowledgeable.
Dealing with the financial affairs/estate following a bereavement is never easy however, it was made so much easier for us as a family when dealing with Claire. She was always available to answer our questions and provide sound advice. Her friendly approach was also welcomed during this difficult time.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 07 August, 2024
Dear Suzanne, Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re pleased to hear that Claire’s support and advice were helpful during your Wills matter. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Was this review helpful? Yes
OFFSHORE TRUST
Claire, who I have nominated to be my Executor, explained the mechanism of dealing with my Off Shore Trust and Letter of wishes.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 12 June, 2024
Dear Ray, Thank you for your feedback! We're glad to hear that Claire effectively explained the mechanism for handling your Off Shore Trust and Letter of Wishes. We appreciate your recommendation. Best regards, Birkett Long LLP
Was this review helpful? Yes
My Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney
Excellent professional service, thank you.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 04 March, 2024
Dear John, Thank you for your feedback! We're delighted to hear that you found our service excellent and professional. Best regards, Birkett Long LLP
Was this review helpful? Yes
Totally satisfied
The prospect of personally setting up a Power of Attorney had seemed a little daunting. Following the solicitors' initial advice I am happy that this matter, along with the changing of wills, was dealt with in a competent and pleasant manner, by Clare and her team. Being updated and informed as to the current state of play, was also first class. The Office of The Public Guardian however, were disappointingly slow in their dealings, with the matter taking around 9-10 months to conclude. Fortunately there were no pressing concerns. Birkett Long LLP has been recommended to and used by a friend, and also my family have used the company on another matter.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 15 February, 2024
Dear Evan, Thank you for your feedback! We're pleased to hear that Clare and our team handled your Power of Attorney and wills matters competently and pleasantly. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by delays from the Office of The Public Guardian. We appreciate your recommendation and are here to assist you further if needed. Best regards, Birkett Long LLP
Was this review helpful? Yes
Professional, friendly advice.
Claire has been our personal solicitor for many years. She has advised us on several issues, particularly inheritance tax planning. Claire has been clear, friendly and responsive to our needs.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 03 January, 2024
Dear Terry, Thank you for your long-term trust and positive feedback! We're pleased to hear that Claire has provided clear, friendly, and responsive advice on various matters. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Best regards, Birkett Long LLP
Was this review helpful? Yes
Long association with the firm
We have used Birkett Long over many years using its expertise in various areas including property transactions, mortgage advice, IHT planning and preparation of our wills. In all areas we found the firm very efficient and helpful.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 03 January, 2024
Dear David, Thank you for your continued trust and positive feedback! We're pleased to hear that Claire and the team have been efficient and helpful in various areas over the years. If you have any more needs or questions, feel free to reach out. Best regards, Birkett Long LLP
Was this review helpful? Yes
Review for Claire Read, Partner at Birkett Long, LLP
I've had the pleasure of receiving Claire Read's services as a private client on an ad hoc basis for many years - I've always received excellent service, combining a professional with a personable approach - and having matters clearly explained to me - Melanie.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 21 November, 2023
Thank you for your continued trust and kind words about Claire Read's services, Melanie. We're pleased to hear that our professional and personable approach, along with clear explanations, have met your expectations over the years. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Was this review helpful? Yes
POA and Will
Excellent support and knowledge provided by Claire, every question asked was provided with concise information, to allow me to make the decisions required.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 06 November, 2023
Thank you for your kind words, Annmarie. We are delighted that Claire could assist you effectively with your power of attorney and will. Best Wishes, Birkett Long.
Was this review helpful? Yes
Estate of Late Parents.
The service provided was both professional, and efficient, but also allowed consideration, and respect, for the circumstances in which matters were being addressed. I found it very reassuring to have my Late Parents Estate addressed in a competent, and personalised, manner. Claire made sure that she was able to accommodate requests for both Teams Meetings, and a home visit to my Late Mothers property prior to her demise, which made matters much easier for my Family, and in particular for my elderly Mother at the time. Given the situation we all faced with the Covid Lockdowns too, I felt our procedures were never compromised, and matters were dealt with as promptly and effectively as they could be.
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 19 September, 2023
Thank you for your kind words. We are pleased to hear that our team, especially Claire, provided you with a professional, efficient, and considerate service during a challenging time. Your feedback is greatly appreciated. Best Wishes, Birkett Long.
Was this review helpful? Yes
Review Solicitors - Claire Reed
Claire is a consummate professional, personable and kind yet with practised skilled client focused leadership; a shining asset to Birkett Long LLP
Lawyer named in this review: Claire Read
A representative from Birkett Long LLP responded to this review on 23 August, 2023
Dear Kathryn, Thank you for your kind words. We are delighted to hear that Claire's professionalism, personability, and client-focused approach stood out. She is a valued member of our team. Your feedback is greatly appreciated. Best wishes, Birkett Long
Was this review helpful? Yes