Mischa McKevitt

I joined Crane & Staples in the summer of 2021, qualifying as a Solicitor in the Private Client team in August 2023.

I graduated from the University of Nottingham with an LLB Law with American Law degree in 2018. After this, I completed the Legal Practice Course at the University of Law, graduating with a distinction in 2020. Prior to joining Crane & Staples, I also previously worked in the Wills, Trust and Probate team of a notable firm in the Thames Valley area.

I assist clients with a wide range of private client matters including:

• The preparation of Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney including for older or vulnerable clients.
• Administration of estates – assisting Executor clients with Inheritance Tax matters, obtaining the Grant of Representation in the estate and dealing with the general administration to include collecting in the assets, settling the liabilities and distributing the estate.
• Contentious probate and trust matters including advising executors, trustees and beneficiaries as to their role, duties and position where disputes have arisen in an estate or trust.
• Acting for clients in bringing or defending claims against an estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
• Court of Protection applications including, for the appointment of Property and Affairs Deputies and the determination of personal welfare matters.
• Contentious Court of Protection proceedings including, contesting an application for registration of a Power of Attorney (Enduring or Lasting) or a Deputy Application that has been made to the Court of Protection. These matters often relate to disputes regarding the mental capacity of ‘P’ (the protected party) to make a particular decision.

I strive to achieve the best outcome for each specific client I assist. I take a positive and empathetic approach to every matter, advising clients clearly on the nuances and practicalities of their position from the outset. My friendly and direct demeanour mean clients feel at ease and guided through their matter with excellent professionalism.

Awards

• Junior Lawyer of the Year - Hertfordshire Law Society - 2024

Professional Memberships

• I have sat on the committee of the Hertfordshire Junior Lawyers Division since September 2022, and I am currently Co-Treasurer and Co-Social Secretary for the 2023/24 year. The Hertfordshire Junior Lawyers Division host a range of networking and training events for junior legal professionals in the local area.
• I am a member of the Women in Wills group, where women in the Wills and Probate industry meet for training events and support.

Outside the Office

Outside of the office, I enjoy travelling and exploring new places, running and spending time with friends and family.

I also enjoy representing the firm at local charity and community events.