Nicola Steadman Solicitor & Head of Private Client
I have a sympathetic but professional approach to all matters, including Lasting Powers of Attorneys, Court of Protection, Wills and Administration of Estates and have a particular interest in farming families and succession planning to ensure that farming clients maximise any inheritance tax reliefs available.
I am a member of The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), having passed all of the requisite exams in the space of 18 months. My expertise in dealing with the older client is second to none.
Having qualified in September 2009 with another Cumbrian firm, I studied the Exempting Law Degree at Northumbria University where I won the award for my pro bono work in the University’s free legal advice service.
I am a member of the Private Client Section of The Law Society and a fully accredited member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, having completed both accredited awards – the Older Client Care in Practice Award and the Older Client in Practice Award.
In addition, I have completed the necessary training to be a Dementia Friend through the Alzheimer’s Society and am a volunteer with Nine Oaks Housing Trust, sheltered accommodation in Windermere which supports those who may be unable or unwilling to live alone and wish to have support and company in their later years.
Based in Kirkby Stephen, I was very much involved in the shoebox appeal through the local charity, Boxes of Hope, Cumbria, which sent shoeboxes of goodies to children in Eastern Europe at Christmas until last year. I have previously devoted lots of my time to Young Farmers, both at County and Northern Area level and now get asked to judge and steward competitions instead! I can often be found in the family’s allotment down by the river on a nice day watching the weeds grow and planning my next holiday!
Travelling is very much a passion of mine, having visited over 50 countries so far. My favourites include Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Vietnam, and I’d love to one day visit Japan, Costa Rica and Peru.
