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Matthew is a trainee solicitor in the dispute resolution division.
Matthew joins the firm on secondment, bringing with him his experience in working on international family offices and complex estates. As a registered medical doctor with a background in psychiatry, he offers a distinctive perspective at the intersection of medicine and law, particularly in relation to medical assessments.
His experience in mental and testamentary capacity is applied across both contentious and non-contentious matters, serving charities, trusts, probate cases, and family offices that span multiple jurisdictions. Matthew's unique combination of medical training and legal experience provides valuable insights for clients navigating complex capacity issues.
ME IN A MINUTE
I did not know how suited I was to law until I worked as an NHS doctor at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
I did not know how suited I was to law until I worked as an NHS doctor at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. My time in Emergency Medicine, Acute Medical Units, and ITU exposed me to the most challenging capacity assessments imaginable—patients facing life-altering decisions while critically ill, often without proper documentation or clarity of wishes.
My background differs from many in the legal profession. I initially pursued medicine, developing expertise in psychiatry and capacity assessment. The pandemic created a crucible where medical ethics and legal principles converged daily, revealing to me the critical importance of proper legal frameworks in healthcare decision-making.
What draws me to contentious probate and capacity work is the intricate balance of technical legal knowledge, medical expertise, and human understanding. I find fulfilment in bringing clarity to complex situations where medical and legal considerations intersect—particularly in disputed Wills, questions of testamentary capacity, and governance planning for incapacity.
I am particularly passionate about preventative work—helping clients establish robust structures before capacity issues arise. My unique perspective as both doctor and lawyer allows me to bridge these disciplines, offering insights that can help resolve disputes efficiently while respecting the profound human element in these deeply personal matters.