Maria Goodacre

Maria is a Chartered Legal Executive having qualified 10^th December 2007, with over 16 years’ experience of private client law and having worked in a legal environment for 26 years.  She is an Accredited Lifetime Lawyer assisting people throughout their lifetime, often when they are at their most vulnerable and when their circumstances are more complex, offering advice and reassurance to enable them to plan ahead for their needs and those of their families as appropriate.

Maria specialises in Wills, Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection applications, Estate and Trust administration and can draw up Deeds of Trust, Deeds of Variation, Deeds of Gift, Deeds of Appropriation arrange Severances of Joint Tenancy and prepare Declarations of Trust regarding property shares of ownership.  

Maria can advise generally as to the current care fee assessment process for care fee funding and current deprivation of asset rules. She can provide general advice as to Inheritance Tax matters, but where tailored tax advice is needed and matters are complex she recommends arranging advice meetings together with a client’s tax and financial adviser at the same time to enable a well-rounded approach covering legal, tax and financial aspects so clients are fully informed as to their options and consequences.

Maria can advise attorneys as to their role, responsibilities and duties when acting, matters to be aware of and where conflicts could arise what action they need to take to ensure they are acting correctly on behalf of the donor, by applying to the Court for specific approval for example.

Client Testimonials

"I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Maria who is a friendly, approachable lawyer and her technical knowledge is outstanding." - CR

"Maria is immensely knowledgeable & helpful, particularly in relation to trusts, estate planning, Wills & probate." - RG


Outside of Work

In her spare time Maria supports local and national charities, particularly those relating to vulnerable people, the environment and animal welfare. She likes to raise awareness of mental health and neurodiversity, having been diagnosed with ADHD herself. She enjoys attending music events and supporting local bands and festivals.