Firm news Archives

9th September 2026

Meet Julie: The Rock Behind Our Real Estate, Commercial & Corporate Team

Some of the most important people in a busy law firm are not always the ones you see at the front of a transaction.

Behind every client matter is a team keeping things moving, managing processes, supporting our solicitors and making sure the right systems are in place. Within the Real Estate, Commercial & Corporate team at Vyman Solicitors, Julie is very much one of those people.

With more than 26 years’ experience in the legal sector, Julie has seen both the profession and her own role change considerably. Today, as Executive Assistant, she provides high-level support across a busy department advising businesses, investors, developers and individuals.

26 Years in the Legal Sector

Julie’s career began in a traditional legal secretarial role, giving her an invaluable understanding of what it takes to keep a busy legal practice running effectively.

As Vyman and the department have grown, particularly under Sheetal Badiani’s leadership, Julie’s role has evolved too.

“My responsibilities have gradually moved away from the traditional day-to-day secretarial function and towards a broader Executive Assistant role, providing support across the department and contributing to the wider operations of the firm.”

Today, Julie is increasingly involved in the development and organisation of the department. This includes helping establish new systems and processes, supporting and delivering training to colleagues across the firm and helping ensure the infrastructure behind the team develops as the department grows.

Keeping a Busy Legal Team Moving

There is rarely a typical day for Julie.

The Real Estate, Commercial & Corporate team handles a broad range of matters, often with multiple transactions and deadlines progressing simultaneously.

Julie coordinates the onboarding of new matters, helps fee earners follow established processes and supports Sheetal and the wider team with a range of commercial and operational requirements.

She particularly enjoys the opportunity to improve the way things are done.

“I value being involved in improving processes, supporting the team and helping the department and wider teams operate effectively.”

It reflects something central to the way we work at Vyman: success is a team game.

Excellent client service is not simply about the lawyer advising on a matter. It relies on a wider team being reliable, proactive, attentive and supportive behind the scenes – qualities Julie demonstrates every day.

Growing Alongside Vyman

One of the most rewarding aspects of Julie’s career has been the opportunity to develop alongside the firm.

Rather than remaining within the traditional boundaries of her original role, she has taken on broader responsibilities and found new ways to contribute across the department and wider business.

But when Julie talks about why she enjoys working at Vyman, one thing stands out: the people.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is feeling valued and appreciated by the team. The positive relationships I have developed and knowing that my contribution is recognised are a significant reason why I enjoy working at Vyman and see myself continuing to develop within my new role.”

That matters to us. Our ambition is to build lasting relationships not only with our clients, but with the people who build their careers here. Creating an environment where people can develop, contribute ideas and grow with the firm is an important part of that.

“Julie Is Part of the Fabric of Our Team”

Sheetal Badiani, Head of Department and Director of Legal Operations at Vyman Solicitors, says:

“Julie is part of the fabric of our team. Over the years, her role has grown alongside the department, but what has never changed is how much we rely on her. She understands our people, our processes and what needs to happen behind the scenes to keep a busy team moving.

“Julie embodies so many of the values we want Vyman to be known for – she is reliable, proactive, supportive and always thinking about how we can do things better. Most importantly, she genuinely cares about the team. We are incredibly fortunate to have her.”

The People Behind Vyman Solicitors

Julie might describe her role as supporting the department, but those who work alongside her would probably put it differently.

She is someone colleagues turn to when something needs organising, a process needs improving or something simply needs getting done.

After more than 26 years in the legal profession, Julie brings experience that cannot be captured by a job title alone. As our Real Estate, Commercial & Corporate team continues to grow, she remains an important part of the people and infrastructure behind it.

And when she does eventually switch off from keeping everyone else organised, you’ll most likely find her spending time with family and friends, or settling down with a good book and a glass of wine.

Every strong legal team needs great people behind the scenes. Julie is undoubtedly one of ours.

20th August 2026

Helping Clients Navigate Residential Property with Confidence

With more than 14 years’ experience, Residential Property Solicitor James advises buyers, sellers and property investors on residential conveyancing, freehold and leasehold transactions, remortgages, auction purchases and higher-risk buildings. We caught up with James to discuss what drew him into residential property law, what clients value most and why clear communication makes all the difference.

Finding the Right Fit

Rather than studying law from the outset, James graduated from the University of Bristol with a History degree in 2008.

After speaking with practising lawyers and law graduates about the different career paths available, he realised that property law offered exactly what he was looking for: a varied, client-facing area of law where no two days would ever be the same.

More than 14 years later, that variety is still what keeps him motivated.

“Every transaction is different. Every client has different priorities, different circumstances and different challenges. That constant variety is what keeps the role interesting.”

Every Day Is Different

Ask James what a typical day looks like and the answer is simple: there isn’t one.

His days are spent speaking with clients, progressing transactions and finding practical solutions to the issues that inevitably arise during the buying and selling process.

Whether acting for a first-time buyer, someone remortgaging their home or an experienced property investor, his focus remains the same — helping clients move forward with confidence.

“A large part of my role is keeping clients informed and helping them find practical solutions based on their individual property needs.”

Why Leasehold Work Stands Out

James advises on every aspect of residential conveyancing, from freehold purchases and sales to remortgages, transfers of equity and auction transactions.

However, if asked which area he enjoys most, the answer is immediate.

Leasehold transactions.

“They’re often more complex than freehold matters and every transaction brings its own challenges. That’s what makes them so interesting.”

His experience also extends to advising on higher-risk buildings, an increasingly specialist area following the introduction of the Building Safety Act and ongoing regulatory reforms.

Keeping up to date with constantly evolving legislation is essential to ensuring clients understand both the legal and financial implications before committing to a purchase.

“It’s important that clients understand whether a building is safe for occupation, but also whether any remediation costs could affect them. My role is to make sure they’re fully informed before they proceed.”

Keeping Clients Informed

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make.

James believes clients shouldn’t just receive good legal advice – they should understand it.

“Clients are outcome-focused. They want to avoid unnecessary confusion and stress wherever possible. Our job is to guide them through the process clearly and help them achieve the result they’re looking for.”

That commitment to communication shapes the way he works.

Rather than only contacting clients when something significant happens, James believes regular updates are just as important, even when there has been little progress behind the scenes.

“Even if there’s nothing substantive to report, clients appreciate knowing where things stand. I also make sure I’m available to speak on the phone whenever they need reassurance or have questions.”

A Different Approach to Residential Conveyancing

For James, one of the biggest strengths of Vyman Solicitors is its personal approach.

Rather than treating conveyancing as a volume process, the Residential Property team focuses on building relationships, understanding clients’ objectives and providing practical advice throughout every stage of the transaction.

It is an approach that reflects Vyman’s philosophy of being “Your Trusted Legal Partner to Help Navigate Life’s Key Moments.”

“For me, that means being there throughout one of the biggest moments in someone’s life. It’s about helping clients make informed decisions, removing uncertainty wherever possible and making sure they always know someone is looking after their interests.”

Speak to James and Our Residential Property Team

Whether you are buying your first home, selling a property, remortgaging, purchasing at auction or navigating the complexities of a leasehold transaction or higher-risk building, having the right legal advice can make all the difference.

As part of Vyman Solicitors’ Residential Property team, James works closely with clients to provide clear, practical advice from instruction through to completion. With over 14 years’ experience in residential conveyancing, he understands that every property transaction is unique and believes that regular communication, straightforward advice and a proactive approach are key to helping clients move with confidence.

At Vyman Solicitors, our Residential Property solicitors advise homeowners, first-time buyers, landlords, developers and property investors on a full range of residential property matters, including:

Residential conveyancing
Freehold and leasehold transactions
Buying and selling residential property
Remortgages and transfers of equity
Auction purchases
Higher-risk buildings and building safety matters

Whether you’re taking your first step onto the property ladder or managing a complex residential property transaction, James and the Residential Property team are here to help you navigate every stage of the process with confidence.

To speak with James or a member of our Residential Property team, please get in touch to discuss your transaction.

12th August 2026

From Work Experience to Paralegal: Riya’s Journey at Vyman Solicitors

Starting your legal career can feel daunting. Finding a firm that not only gives you practical experience but also invests in your development can make all the difference.

For Riya, that journey began with a work experience placement at Vyman Solicitors. Just a few months later, she returned to the firm as a Paralegal within our Litigation & Dispute Resolution team.

Today, she supports our team of Litigation Solicitors on a wide range of matters, works directly with clients, attends meetings, prepares court documentation and continues to build the skills needed for a long-term career in law.

Why Vyman Solicitors?

Having recently completed her degree in Law and International Relations, Riya was looking for more than just legal experience.

“I wanted to put my legal knowledge into practice and gain exposure to real legal work. Vyman had an excellent reputation locally and felt like the right place to begin my career.”

Although she had already completed a number of work experience placements, she knew she wanted to establish herself within a firm where she could continue learning and develop over the long term.

Learning Through Real Responsibility

One of the things that stood out most during Riya’s placement was the level of trust she was given from the outset.

Rather than simply observing, she became involved in active matters, drafting correspondence, reviewing settlement agreements, preparing bundles and managing case administration.

Within her first week, she was entrusted with finalising documents she had drafted before they were sent to the other side’s solicitors.

“I was surprised by the level of responsibility I was given so early. It showed that the team trusted me and wanted me to learn by getting involved.”

As her placement continued, she also had the opportunity to attend a mediation at Gray’s Inn in London, providing valuable insight into the litigation process and the role of barristers.

Since joining the team, that exposure has continued. Riya regularly has the opportunity to attend court hearings and was recently involved in the MFS litigation injunction matter, supporting the team and attending the hearing in a case which resulted in a successful outcome for the client.

“Having the opportunity to attend hearings and see complex litigation unfold first-hand has been an invaluable part of my development.”

Turning Work Experience into a Career

Riya believes it wasn’t one single thing that led to her being offered a Paralegal role, but rather her approach throughout the placement.

“I tried to take initiative wherever I could. If I finished a task, I’d ask for more work. If I wasn’t sure about something, I’d ask questions. I also made an effort to get to know people across the firm.”

That commitment, combined with a willingness to learn and contribute, resulted in an offer to join the Litigation & Dispute Resolution team on a permanent basis.

“It was incredibly rewarding. I knew during my work experience that this was somewhere I wanted to build my career, so being offered the role was a fantastic feeling.”

Life as a Litigation Paralegal

Now working full-time within the department, Riya supports the team on a broad range of litigation matters.

Her responsibilities include:

Assisting Solicitors with active client matters
Attending meetings and preparing attendance notes
Drafting legal correspondence
Preparing court bundles, disclosure and pleadings
Managing compliance and file administration
Supporting matters from instruction through to conclusion

Although the role has brought new challenges, she says the support available has made all the difference.

“There have been areas I’ve found challenging, particularly drafting as I haven’t yet completed the SQE. But everyone is incredibly approachable and always happy to answer questions. I’ve learned so much already.”

More Than Just Work

For Riya, one of the biggest surprises has been the culture at Vyman.

“The moment I realised this was the firm for me was when I saw first-hand during my work experience how supportive and collaborative everyone was.”

Since joining permanently, she’s also enjoyed becoming part of the wider team.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how social the firm is outside of work. There are regular firm-wide socials, departmental events, training sessions and opportunities to get to know colleagues across the business.”

Looking Ahead

Over the next six months, Riya is focused on continuing to develop her litigation knowledge while building towards qualification as a Solicitor.

She hopes to continue learning from the experienced Solicitors around her and play a part in the future success of the firm.

Advice for Future Applicants

For anyone hoping to turn work experience into a permanent opportunity, Riya’s advice is simple:

“Take initiative. Be willing to go the extra mile, ask for more work, seek feedback and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Just as importantly, get to know the people around you. Build relationships, be present and make the most of every opportunity.

If you’re thinking about applying, I’d absolutely encourage you to do it. There is so much to learn here, and whatever stage you’re at in your legal career, Vyman provides an environment where you can develop, take on real responsibility and build your future.”

Interested in joining our team?

We’re always looking for ambitious individuals who are ready to build their careers.

Explore our current opportunities on our Careers page or contact recruitment@vyman.co.uk to find out more.

31st July 2026

Meet Ana-Maria: Supporting Clients Through Every Stage of Their Business Journey

When businesses are buying, selling, restructuring or planning for growth, having the right legal advice can make all the difference.

As a Corporate Associate at Vyman Solicitors, Ana-Maria works with business owners, entrepreneurs and companies across a broad range of corporate and commercial matters, helping clients navigate transactions with confidence and achieve their commercial objectives.

We caught up with Ana-Maria to learn more about her career, what attracted her to corporate law and what it’s like to be part of the team at Vyman.

A Career Built Around Helping People

For Ana-Maria, a career in law has always been about more than technical legal knowledge.

“I’ve always been drawn to helping people navigate important and sometimes stressful situations. Law felt like a natural fit because it combines problem-solving with the opportunity to support clients through significant milestones and challenges in their lives and businesses.”

That practical, people-focused approach continues to shape the way she works with clients today.

Why Corporate and Commercial Law?

Corporate transactions often represent significant moments in the life of a business.

Whether a company is expanding, acquiring another business, restructuring or preparing for future growth, every transaction brings its own commercial and legal considerations.

Ana-Maria enjoys helping clients understand those complexities and providing advice that is both practical and commercially focused.

“I help clients with acquisitions, disposals, restructures and a wide range of general corporate matters. My role is to guide clients through the process, explain complex legal issues in a straightforward way and help them achieve their commercial goals as efficiently as possible.”

Supporting Businesses with Confidence

No two days in Corporate & Commercial Law are ever the same.

A typical day may involve advising clients on business transactions, reviewing and negotiating legal documents, managing deal timetables and working closely with colleagues to keep matters progressing smoothly.

For Ana-Maria, one of the most rewarding aspects of her role is building trusted relationships with clients.

“The most rewarding matters are those where I’ve been able to build a strong relationship with a client and help them successfully complete an important transaction. It’s particularly satisfying when you can make what feels like a complex and stressful process much more manageable for them.”

Why Vyman Solicitors?

When considering the next step in her career, Ana-Maria was looking for a firm that shared her approach to client service.

“I was attracted to Vyman’s strong client-focused approach and its reputation for providing practical, commercial advice. It also seemed like a place where people genuinely enjoy working together, which was important to me.”

Since joining the firm, she has found exactly that.

Describing the culture in three words, Ana-Maria chooses:

Welcoming. Supportive. Collaborative.

Those values underpin the way our teams work together and how we deliver legal services to clients across Corporate & Commercial, Commercial Property, Litigation, Family, Residential Property and Private Client matters.

Life Outside the Office

Outside of work, Ana-Maria enjoys cooking, discovering new restaurants and travelling whenever she gets the opportunity.

“I love discovering new places and cuisines, and I’m always happy to take restaurant recommendations.”

Looking Ahead

As she continues to develop her career, Ana-Maria is focused on building long-term relationships with clients and continuing to strengthen her expertise in corporate and commercial law.

“I hope to continue developing my expertise, building strong client relationships and helping businesses navigate important transactions with confidence. Ultimately, I’d like to be known as a trusted adviser who adds real value to clients.”

Welcome to the Vyman Solicitors family, Ana-Maria!

14th April 2026

Vyman Solicitors Welcomes Anil Rajani to Strengthen Commercial Litigation and Financial Crime Offering

Vyman Solicitors is pleased to welcome Anil Rajani to the firm as a Director within its Litigation team, further strengthening its capability in commercial litigation, financial crime and complex disputes.

Anil advises individuals, business owners and corporate entities on high-value commercial disputes, including shareholder disputes, civil fraud, contractual conflicts and regulatory investigations. He also specialises in white collar crime, advising clients on matters involving fraud, AML, sanctions and enforcement action.

He has experience in multi-jurisdictional commercial litigation, including disputes involving injunctive relief and cross-border issues.

His recent work includes advising on a high-value shareholder dispute resolved through mediation (£1.6m settlement), a multi-jurisdictional dispute involving UK, US and Middle East parties (resulting in a $5m settlement), and representing stakeholders in a £10m football club dispute.

Alongside disputes work, Anil advises corporates and professionals on internal investigations, governance and regulatory risk, particularly where there is potential scrutiny from bodies such as the FCA, SFO and HMRC.

Commercial Litigation and Regulatory Disputes – Supporting Clients at Critical Moments

Much of Anil’s work involves supporting clients at points where situations have escalated – whether through a commercial dispute, financial crime issue or regulatory investigation – and where early, clear direction can significantly influence the outcome.

A Strategic Appointment for Vyman Solicitors Litigation Team

Commenting on his appointment, Anil said:

“The matters I advise on are often critical moments for clients – where legal issues are closely tied to commercial pressures and personal consequences. In these situations, it is important to take a measured and strategic approach from the outset, ensuring decisions are made with a clear understanding of both the risks and the wider implications.

Vyman’s approach to supporting clients through these moments, with clear and commercially grounded advice across all aspects of their affairs, strongly aligns with how I work. I look forward to supporting clients through complex disputes while contributing to the continued growth of the firm.”

Anup Vyas, Managing Director, Vyman Solicitors, added:

“We are very pleased to welcome Anil to Vyman Solicitors.

His experience in commercial litigation and financial crime adds real strength to our Litigation team at a time when clients are facing increasingly complex and high-value disputes.

This is an important appointment as we continue to build a practice that supports clients not only through disputes, but across the wider legal and commercial challenges they face as trusted advisers.”

Get in Touch

If you are dealing with a commercial dispute, regulatory investigation or financial crime matter, please get in touch with our Litigation team.

8th December 2025

Strategic Legal Guidance for Dental Professionals: Insights from Our ACE Courses Collaboration

At Vyman Solicitors, we believe in partnerships that go beyond legal advice. That’s why we were delighted to collaborate with ACE Courses for a dedicated session aimed at dental professionals considering practice ownership, expansion or succession planning.

Our Managing Director, Anup Vyas was joined by senior members of our Corporate and Commercial Property team – including Sheetal Badiani, Kajal Patel, and Hussein Juma – the session provided attendees with a clear, strategic overview of what to expect when buying a dental practice, from due diligence and lease structures to NHS regulatory requirements.

Why this collaboration matters
The dental sector continues to experience rising demand, complex regulation and growing interest from both first-time buyers and seasoned clinicians. At Vyman Solicitors, we’ve spent years supporting clients across the full healthcare spectrum – from dentists and opticians to GP practices, pharmacies and care homes. This webinar marks a shared commitment to ensure the dental community feels informed, empowered and well-supported when navigating key legal milestones.

“Thank you for the webinar last night and for the effort you put in to make it such a success. We’ve had multiple personal messages saying how useful attendees found the session, and I know a few delegates who are actively looking to purchase a dental practice- they’ll be in touch soon, if they haven’t already. As someone who has personally worked with the Vyman team on both my squat practices and property matters, I’ve seen first- hand how well they understand the dental sector. The Vyman team delivered complex legal insight in such a clear, accessible way, and that really stood out. It was a pleasure to collaborate with a firm that truly understands the dental sector and the unique considerations buyers face. I’m looking forward to working together again soon.” Kushal Ghadia, Founder, ACE Courses

“A big thank you to Kushal and the ACE Courses team for inviting us to take part in this insightful session. Buying a dental practice is a huge step – whether it’s your first or your fifth – and having the right team around you from the outset makes all the difference. Legal, financial and regulatory considerations often intersect in complex ways, and our role is to simplify that journey for clinicians. We really value the opportunity to share our knowledge with such an engaged audience and look forward to supporting many more dental professionals as they take this next step.” Sheetal Badiani, Head of Corporate and Commercial Property

We look forward to many more opportunities to collaborate with ACE Courses and the wider healthcare community.

Learn more about the webinar here.

26th November 2025

Autumn Budget 2025: What It Means for You, Your Business and Your Future

Budget Summary from Vyman Solicitors

The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has delivered her Autumn Budget 2025 – and it’s one that sets the tone for a new fiscal era.

Against a backdrop of rising inflation, downgraded long-term growth forecasts, and one of the largest medium-term tax increases in 15 years, this Budget represents a shift towards long-term tax discipline and increased public spending in priority areas like education, apprenticeships, and AI.

At Vyman Solicitors, we’ve reviewed the key announcements and what they mean for our clients – from individuals and families to business owners, property investors and professionals in regulated sectors.

Headline Measures

Income tax thresholds frozen for another 3 years – pulling more people into higher bands
Salary sacrifice capped at £2,000 for pension contributions by 2029
Mansion tax introduced -£2,500 per year for homes valued over £2 million
ISA allowance cut to £12,000 for savers under 65
Dividend, savings and property income tax rates increased by 2%
Electric cars to face road usage charges from 2028
Corporation tax reliefs tightened, especially writing-down allowances
Continued fuel duty freeze
Training support for under-25s, investment in AI, schools, and the NHS

While the short-term GDP forecast has been upgraded (1.5% growth in 2025), growth expectations from 2026 onwards have been revised down. Inflation is set to remain above the 2% Bank of England target into 2026.

What This Means in Real Terms

For individuals:

More people will move into higher tax brackets due to frozen thresholds. Those with savings, rental income or dividend portfolios may see higher liabilities. ISA limits are tighter, and properties worth over £2m will now incur annual charges.

For property owners & investors:

The mansion tax and increased property income rates make tax planning essential – particularly for those looking to acquire, dispose, refinance or gift property in the near future.

For business owners & employers:

Corporation tax adjustments and salary sacrifice limits mean more strategic scrutiny is required across director remuneration, pensions, and structuring. Cash flow may be impacted depending on the business’s asset-heavy operations.

For high-net-worth families:

Although no immediate changes to inheritance tax were announced, the Budget hints at a future tightening of reliefs. Now is the time to review gifting, succession, and trust structures before April 2026 reforms come into effect.

For regulated and growth sectors:

Healthcare, education, tech, and automotive sectors will feel the trickle-down of AI investment, skills support, and evolving compliance requirements – especially in contracts, employment, and data regulation.

Our Advice

Whether you’re reviewing your property portfolio, planning an acquisition, navigating a business sale, or preparing your estate – early planning is now more important than ever.

This Budget delivers complexity. But with the right legal guidance, you can turn that complexity into clarity and control.

How Vyman Solicitors Can Help

Our cross-department team advises clients on:

Business & asset acquisitions/disposals
High-value residential & commercial property
Tax-efficient structuring and succession planning
Contracts, employment and compliance
Disputes, litigation and regulatory matters
Immigration, pensions and family wealth
Estate and inheritance planning

Speak to our team

For a confidential conversation about how this Budget may impact your plans.

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Sources:

Thisismoney.co.uk – What the Budget 2025 means for you: How Rachel Reeves’ tax hikes will hit

Bbc.co.uk – Reeves says ‘ordinary people’ will have to pay ‘a little bit more’ as she defends Budget tax rises

The Telegraph – Budget 2025: Key points at a glance

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About Vyman Solicitors

Located in North West London, Vyman Solicitors provides a comprehensive range of legal services, including Corporate & Commercial Property Law, Litigation, Residential and Conveyancing Law, Family Law, Private Client and Immigration. Known for its commitment to personalised client support and legal excellence, Vyman is a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.

Follow Vyman Solicitors on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

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Disclaimer

This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Vyman Solicitors accepts no responsibility for any loss arising from reliance on the information provided. Specific advice should always be sought from a qualified professional based on your individual circumstances. Budget measures are subject to change, and further legislation or guidance may apply.

6th November 2025

How to Talk to Your Parents About Wills – A Guide to Starting the Conversation with Sensitivity and Purpose

Why is it important to talk to your parents about making a will?

Talking to your parents about writing a will might feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most important conversations you can have. Without a valid will, their wishes may not be honoured, and it could leave family members facing legal complications, emotional stress, and even disputes.

Whether your parents are ageing, in good health, or somewhere in between, having this discussion early can:

Ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes.
Prevent potential family conflicts.
Allow them to appoint guardians for dependents or make charitable bequests.
Provide clarity about funeral wishes and personal preferences.

When is the right time to raise the subject of wills?

There’s no “perfect” moment, but the right time is usually sooner than you think. Consider raising the topic:

After major life events (e.g. retirement, sale of a property, birth of grandchildren).
During estate planning discussions.
When reviewing your own will or financial planning.
In the context of wider family or financial planning.

Choose a calm, private setting – ideally when there’s no stress or time pressure.

How do I start the conversation about wills with my parents?

Approach the topic with empathy, not urgency. Here are some gentle ways to open the discussion:

“I’ve been thinking about getting my own will sorted. Have you both got one in place?”
“If anything ever happened, it would give us real peace of mind knowing everything was in place for you.”
“I know this can feel awkward to talk about, but it’s something I’d really like to understand.”

Let them know that the conversation comes from a place of care, not control.

What if my parents get defensive or don’t want to talk about it?

It’s common for older generations to view wills as morbid or unnecessary – especially if they believe things will “work themselves out.” If they push back, try to:

Reassure them: “This isn’t about taking over – it’s about making sure your wishes are respected.”
Offer support: “If you’re unsure where to begin, I can help you find someone to speak with.”
Share real-life examples of people who’ve had problems when no will was in place.

If they still resist, back off gently and revisit the topic another time.

What key points should my parents consider when writing a will?

Encourage them to think about:

Who they want to inherit their assets (money, property, personal belongings).
Who they want to appoint as executors (the people responsible for carrying out the will).
Guardians for any dependants.
Any specific wishes for funeral arrangements or charitable donations.
What happens if a beneficiary passes away before them.

What happens if my parents don’t make a will?

If your parents die without a will, their estate will be distributed under the rules of intestacy, which may not reflect their wishes. For example:

Unmarried partners or stepchildren may inherit nothing.
The estate could be frozen while legal matters are resolved.
Family disputes may arise about money, property, and funeral decisions.

Creating a will ensures control, clarity, and peace of mind.

Can my parents write their own will or do they need a solicitor?

While there are DIY will kits available, these often lead to problems if:

The wording is unclear.
The will isn’t properly witnessed or signed.
Important assets or clauses are left out.

For anything more than the most basic situation – or for peace of mind – it’s strongly recommended that your parents speak to a qualified solicitor.

How can Vyman Solicitors help?

At Vyman Solicitors, our Private Client team specialises in helping families approach these sensitive discussions with care and clarity. We can:

Help your parents understand what a will should include.
Draft a clear, legally valid will tailored to their wishes.
Support you and your family with any wider estate planning or inheritance tax considerations.

We understand that this is more than just a legal document – it’s about family, legacy, and respect.

Talk to us today

Whether you’re thinking about starting the conversation or you’re ready to book a consultation, our team is here to help.

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About Vyman Solicitors

Follow Vyman Solicitors on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

19th September 2025

Why STEP Accreditation Matters and What It Means for Our Clients

We’re proud to share that Anu Khanduja, Private Client Solicitor at Vyman Solicitors, is now a full member of STEP (The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) – the leading professional body for practitioners in the field of trusts and estates.

But what does this mean for our clients?

What is STEP?

STEP is the global benchmark for excellence in estate and succession planning. Its members are recognised as specialists in advising families on matters such as:

Wills and succession planning
Inheritance tax mitigation
Probate and estate administration
Trusts and asset protection
Powers of attorney and capacity planning

To become STEP registered, practitioners must undergo rigorous training, assessment, and demonstrate years of experience in the field.

The Benefits for You

Having a STEP-qualified solicitor on your side means you’re working with someone who:

Has advanced, up-to-date technical knowledge in private client law
Is committed to ethical standards and best practice
Understands both the legal and practical aspects of family wealth planning
Can advise on complex and high-value estates with confidence

For clients, this brings peace of mind. Whether you’re writing your first will, administering an estate, or planning for the future of your family or business, you can trust that Anu’s advice is informed, strategic, and personalised to your unique situation.

A Milestone We’re Proud Of

Anu’s STEP accreditation is not just a personal achievement, it’s a reflection of our wider commitment at Vyman Solicitors to provide specialist legal services rooted in excellence and trust.

If you would like to speak to Anu or one of our team about wills, estate planning or probate, we’re here to help.

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About Vyman Solicitors

Follow Vyman Solicitors on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

12th May 2025

Supporting Young Women Through Community Action – Harrow Girl Guides

Vyman Solicitors Raised £300 for Harrow Girl Guides.

We believe that empowering women starts at every stage of life – from young girls finding their voice to women leading in business, law, and beyond.

This year’s International Women’s Day, our team came together to support the next generation of women through a cause close to our hearts. Through an internal Bake Sale, we raised £300 for the 16th Harrow Girl Guides, helping fund a special outdoor activity that will teach the girls new skills and provide them with exciting experiences.

In April, our Head of Family Law, Zharna Sutaria, met the Guides and heard first-hand about their ambitions. From future vets and anaesthetists to aspiring entrepreneurs, these young women shared big dreams—and reminded us why support at an early stage matters.

“We believe in accelerating action and inspiring the next generation of women,” Zharna said. “This was a small way for us to give back and encourage young girls to see no limits on what they can achieve.”

The donation will go towards a special summer activity, chosen by the leadership team at Harrow Girl Guides.

Heena, Team Lead of the 16th Harrow Girl Guides, shared:

“We are very grateful to Vyman Solicitors for their kind donation. Girlguiding empowers young women to believe they can do anything. This will help us run an outdoor activity session where the girls will learn new skills and gain valuable experiences. Thank you again for supporting youth in the local community with your generosity.”

Empowering Women at Every Stage

This initiative is part of Vyman Solicitors broader commitment to supporting women’s empowerment, including our Women in Business series, where we connect with female professionals and leaders to share knowledge, create networks, and inspire growth.

Whether through our work in the community or our professional initiatives, we’re focused on building a more inclusive, supportive environment for women in all walks of life.

Thank you to everyone who baked, donated, and supported this campaign.

Together, we’re helping to shape confident, ambitious futures for women.

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