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Mikhala Leak

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Mikhala… 

What’s the most daring/scariest thing you have done?

When on a safari in South Africa, a female Rhino charged at our safari jeep to protect its baby. Our tour guide seemed un-phased  by this and it was lovely to see the baby Rhino, but scary none the less!

What was your first job?

I was a helper on a Sunday in a hairdressing salon. I swept and washed hair, made drinks and sorted out the products on the shelves.

Tell us something that not many people would know about you?

I absolutely love spring cleaning, but in all seasons!

If you weren’t a lawyer or in your current profession, what would you be doing?

Probably something to do with animals, which I love, perhaps a zoologist?

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Michelle Gimmi

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Michelle… 

What’s the most daring/scariest thing you have done?

Ziplining! I was supervising a school trip and the children encouraged me to go on the zipline, which I did. It was the most scariest thing I had ever done in my life. I screamed most of the time, but it was fun!

If you weren’t a lawyer or in your current profession, what would you be doing?

I would be a teacher. I worked at a school for many years in the office, I was a covid classroom support and did some TA work so I would pursue a career in teaching if law was not my passion!

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Kerry Brookes

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)
Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Jenny Teall

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Jenny…

What’s the most daring/scariest thing you have done?

Completing the 3 Peaks (Ben Nevis, Scarfell Pike and Snowdon) in 24 hours challenge.

What was your first job?

Administrator at a council office.

Tell us something that not many people would know about you?

I have a black tag belt in Tae Kwan Do.

If you weren’t a lawyer or in your current profession, what would you be doing?

Selling Bubble Tea with my husband. He’ll make it, I’ll sell it!

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Jacqui Pearce

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Jacqui…

What’s the most daring/scariest thing you have done?

Scariest thing I have done is climb the 551 steps to the top of the dome of St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, I am terrified of heights.

If you weren’t a lawyer or in your current profession, what would you be doing?

I love photography, I won an award when I was a teenager and some of my work has been published. I wanted to be a war photographer but my Mum wouldn’t let me.

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Helen Simpson

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Helen… 

What’s the most daring/scariest thing you have done?

Given birth to my daughter at home with no midwife present, just me and my husband. Most amazing experience of my life!

Tell us something that not many people would know about you?

Starred in a TV home makeover show in 2022 with a celebrity presenter.

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Ayesha Begum

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Ayesha…

Tell us something that not many people would know about you?

When I was 3, I climbed up to my grandma’s medicine cabinet and took her blood pressure tablet mistaking it for a red skittle – spent the rest of the day at the hospital!

If you weren’t a lawyer or in your current profession, what would you be doing?

Something that involved a lot of Maths or Science.

 

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Ann-Marie Cleghorn

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Ann-Marie… 

What was your first job?

Working for my dad making tea and coffee for those on the factory floor.

Tell us something that not many people would know about you?

I love James Arthur the winner of the X Factor 2012, I make my daughter come to his concerts. We have seen him 10 times in concert.

If you weren’t a lawyer or in your current profession, what would you be doing?

Personal shopper.

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Amira Abdu

Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning

Mikhala is a Partner and the head of the firm’s Private Client department. She completed her law degree at Lancaster University and undertook the Legal Practice Course at City University London. She began her training contract with Woodfines in 2009 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2011. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Mikhala undertakes all areas of Private Client work with a particular interest in estate and succession planning. She often works in conjunction with Tax Advisers, Accountants and Financial Advisers to ensure her clients’ needs are fully covered. Mikhala drafts complex Wills to achieve the desired succession of assets in the most tax efficient and appropriate way for her clients. She can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of trusts available for both estate planning and safeguarding of assets for the vulnerable and disabled. Mikhala acts as a professional trustee in relation to trusts set up in Wills or during a settlor’s (the person creating the trust) lifetime.

Mikhala is regularly appointed as a professional attorney under Lasting Powers of Attorney and more recently as a professional deputy by the Court of Protection. This involves having regard to the Mental Capacity Act and Code of Practice together with other relevant legislation to effectively manage an individual’s affairs.

As well as the above, Mikhala also acts as a professional executor to administer estates. The estates are varied in terms of assets and complexity but often involve those with a business or farming interests.

Mikhala is recognised as a 'Next Generation Partner' by Legal 500 (2025)

More about Amira…

If you weren’t a lawyer or in your current profession, what would you be doing?

Teacher! I love sharing my knowledge with others. I am on the Pearson VUE T-Level Panel, and I work with various University students guiding them throughout their time at Uni.

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)

Trusts

Preparing Wills

Very efficient. Initial online preparation forms very comprehensive followed by video call from Solicitor to clarify your requirements. Any number of drafts and advice until final will ready to be signed in person at the office.
We were very pleased with every aspect of our recent dealings with Woodfines.

We have come to expect a thorough, friendly and efficient manner of conducting business at your firm, and our latest experience fully met those expectations.
Mikhala Leak is very knowledgeable and have helped several clients with complex trusts. She is very good at explaining matters in layman terms and helping clients navigate through a tricky process.

Legal 500 (2025)