Samantha Webb

I joined Crane & Staples in 2007 and qualified as a Solicitor in June 2009. In April 2018, I became a Partner in the Wills, Trust and Probate department.

I have a breadth of experience in all areas of private client work, including:

• Court of Protection applications, including statutory wills and gift applications, acting for both applicants and respondents.
• Administration of estates, including complex and high value estates.
• Preparation of Lasting Powers of Attorney.
• Advising on elderly client matters.
• Preparation of Wills
• Advice regarding Inheritance Tax
• Declarations of Trusts concerning property ownership.

My sensitive, friendly and professional manner helps to reassure clients through potentially difficult times. I enjoy getting to know my clients and take pride in my personal approach to client care.

I am involved with the firm’s marketing and business development, and this gives me the opportunity to form close relationships with local charities and participate in community events.

I have also undergone training to become a Dementia Friend and this helps me to understand and support people with dementia.

Memberships

• The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) – the association for solicitors who are recognised as experts in family inheritance and succession planning.
• Fully accredited member of Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) – a national organisation of Solicitors who provide legal advice to older people.

Outside the office

I enjoy spending time with family and friends and walking our dog in all weathers!

I initially wanted to handle the probate myself as I thought that was the best way of satisfying my late mother's wishes.    Delayed grief and stress adversely impacted my health which caused time to slip by.   The fact that a property was involved made matters more complicated. However in hindsight I realised that I wasn't emotionally ready to undertake such a task so soon after her death. Fortunately I realised my limitations and involved a solicitor.  This was just in the nick of time as I had previously been unaware of the statutory deadlines I was required to meet.

I chose Crane and Staples because of their breadth of expertise, should complications arise (which they did), and because I was able to progress everything via email (as I do not live in the area).  I am glad that I chose Crane and Staples as I was entirely satisfied with the service I received, especially from Samantha Webb, the solicitor assigned to my case. Her expertise in probate and was soon evident and matters progressed quickly.  Samantha kept me informed throughout the process and ensured that no key deadlines were missed.

When I first approached your practice I was already completely stressed out from the worry but had not realised the extent to which it had already impacted my health.  As soon as you agreed to take on the case, my health started to improve and (together with retirement) my health is now the best it has been since 2006.

My thanks to you and your staff and my best wishes for the future.