LAWYERS at a fast-growing North East and Cumbria law firm have increased their expertise, after successfully achieving a prestigious qualification.
Emma Etherington and Michael Cattermole, who both work in the Wills, Trusts and Probate department of EMG Solicitors, have recently become Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) TEPs – Trust and Estate Practitioners.
The STEP accreditation is a recognised standard of excellence, specialist knowledge and integrity as well as ensuring its members are experts in inheritance and succession planning.
The worldwide organisation trains professionals across a number of sectors, all of whom are involved with helping families plan for the future.
Already skilled practitioners, both Michael and Emma have enhanced their skills by completing the STEP qualification, which develops both their technical knowledge and their ability to give advice to clients, especially in more complex situations.
Emma joined EMG Solicitors in 2020 and has more than 20 years of experience practicing in private client law and holds an Institute of Legacy Management (ILM) qualification.
Emma specialises in the preparation of Wills, Trusts and Lasting Powers of Attorney and the administration of estates. She will continue using her newly recognised expertise to be further involved in estate and inheritance tax planning.
Michael, a solicitor, with substantial experience in the private client area, joined EMG last year and similarly specialises in Wills, Trusts and estate administration. He has developed a reputation for his excellent client care and expertise in dealing with complex tax estate cases.
Both Emma and Michael are not only now Full Members of STEP, but also fully accredited members of Solicitors for the Elderly and Dementia Friends Champions.
Samantha Edward, Head of the Wills, Trusts and Probate team, is delighted by Emma and Michael’s achievement.
“STEP qualifications are an indicator of the highest of standards and professionalism which are vital when someone is wanting to make provisions for their estate,” she said.
“It assures clients that they are in safe hands and that they are being supported by people with the right knowledge and experience.
“Emma and Mike already have years of experience working in this field but we are thrilled that they both now have this additional string to their bow.”
The award-winning Legal 500 firm, EMG Solicitors, is based across the North East and Cumbria, with offices in Durham City, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Darlington and Penrith.
The firm provides services across a wide range of areas including Court of Protection, Mental Health Law, Residential Conveyancing, Employment Law, Commercial Property, Family Law, Family Mediation, and Disputes and Litigation.
For further information visit www.emgsolicitors.com