Mark Whatley

Mark Whatley is a Private Client Solicitor at Smith Hamilton, advising individuals, families, executors, trustees and attorneys on a broad range of private wealth and succession matters.

Mark specialises in Wills, Trusts, Probate, Estate Administration, Inheritance Tax planning, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection work.  He advises on the preservation and transfer of family wealth, the administration of complex and taxable Estates, and the establishment and management of Trust structures designed to protect assets across generations.

Clients value Mark’s ability to combine technical legal expertise with practical, commercially focused advice.  He understands that Private Client matters frequently involve significant personal and financial considerations and is committed to providing clear, pragmatic guidance tailored to each client’s individual circumstances.

Mark holds a BA (Hons) in History from the Open University, together with a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and a Master of Laws (LLM) from the University of Law, both with a Commendation.  His academic background, combined with his specialist Private Client practice, enables him to provide carefully considered advice on a wide range of Estate, Trust and succession matters.

Alongside his legal career, Mark has served in the Royal Navy and Royal Naval Reserve for more than 26 years and currently holds the rank of Commander in the Royal Naval Reserve.  His military service has instilled the values of leadership, integrity, professionalism and public service that underpin his approach to client care.  He brings a calm, strategic and disciplined outlook to the often complex personal and family matters on which he advises.

As the lead for the firm’s Private Client practice, Mark is responsible for developing and growing the department whilst maintaining the highest standards of technical excellence and client service.  He works closely with a diverse client base, including entrepreneurs, business owners, professionals, retirees, Executors and Trustees.  Whether assisting with long-term succession planning, advising on wealth preservation strategies or navigating the administration of a loved one’s Estate, Mark provides advice that is responsive, discreet and focused on achieving the best outcomes for his clients and their families.

Mark is committed to delivering the personal attention and accessibility expected of a trusted adviser, combined with the quality and expertise associated with a modern and forward-thinking law firm.

Areas of Expertise

• Wills and Estate Planning
• Probate and Estate Administration
• Inheritance Tax and Succession Planning
• Trust Creation and Administration
• Lasting Powers of Attorney
• Court of Protection Matters
• Contentious Probate and Trust Disputes
• Wealth Preservation and Family Succession Planning

Qualifications

• Solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales
• LLM (Commendation), University of Law
• Graduate Diploma in Law (Commendation), University of Law
• BA (Hons) History (2:1), Open University
• Commander, Royal Naval Reserve