Lauren Smith

Sheffield-born and bred, Lauren Smith qualified as a Solicitor in 2006 and has over 15 years Post Qualification Experience specialising in Wills, Probate and Trust work. Working at several firms throughout South Yorkshire Lauren is well known in the region for her advanced expertise, meticulous attention to detail and empathic approach to clients’ needs and circumstances. Lauren joined Taylor Bracewell in December 2014, becoming a Partner in April 2018.

Lauren is also a member of STEP (Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners) and is a fully qualified TEP (Trusts and Estates Practitioner). STEP is the leading worldwide professional body for practitioners in the field of trusts and estates. This means that Lauren is an expert when it comes to advising clients on how best to manage their affairs, and has both specialist qualifications and experience in inheritance and succession planning.

Lauren specialises in a variety of different matters, including drafting Wills, Inheritance Tax Planning and Asset Protection, as well as Probate and Administration of Estates, Trust administration and formation, Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection matters.

What is your job at Taylor Bracewell?

As a Partner of the firm, I not only oversee operations but also actively work with our Wills, Probate & Trusts team.  I have over 15 years of expertise in drafting Wills, Inheritance Tax Planning, Probate and Estate Administration, Trust formation and administration, Asset Protection advice, Powers of Attorney, and Court of Protection work. I qualified as a Solicitor in 2006 but have worked in this field since 2004 when I was a Trainee Solicitor.

I have always had an interest in law from a young age. I used to love watching detective programmes with my dad when I was young and said that I wanted to be a Solicitor from being about 10.

What are your achievements?

Throughout my career, I have been honoured with several awards recognising the work which I do.

These include winning Lawyer Monthlys “Asset Protection Lawyer of the Year” award in both 2022 and 2023 as well as Women in Law’s “Wills, Probate & Trusts Lawyer of the Year UK” in 2022 and 2023.

I have also won the Corporate Livewire 2023 award for “Wills, Probate & Trusts Lawyer of the Year”.

I was also shortlisted for “Partner of the Year” in the Yorkshire Legal Awards in 2023.

What is the best part of working at Taylor Bracewell?

The best part of working at Taylor Bracewell is getting to do what I love each day when I come to work. I get to meet lots of different people and help them out in a variety of ways. Many people are daunted about coming to see a Solicitor so it is nice to alleviate any fears they have and help them with their problems.

What are your interests outside of work?

Generally, I just spend time with my family and friends. I love going on holiday and having weekends away with my husband and son.