About Geoff

Geoff was a litigation partner with a major South Coast law firm for over thirty years until his retirement in April 2017. For over twenty years he worked almost exclusively in the contentious trust and probate field.

In June 2015 Geoff was accredited as a mediator by CEDR (Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution).

He is a firm believer in, and enthusiastic supporter of, the principle of mediation.  He advocates that parties who find themselves in a dispute should consider mediation at an early stage once the relevant issues have been identified, if possible before court proceedings have been taken.  Geoff is more than happy to discuss at any stage, and at no cost, whether he might be able to assist. 

He has been described as bringing to the role of mediator a natural air of confidence and authority, and is able to create a feeling of trust with those who attend.  He acts fairly, independently and with complete impartiality and integrity. Geoff believes it important to prepare thoroughly, and to establish a good rapport with parties who mediate, and ensures all have the fullest opportunities to express their opinions.   His skills include the ability to listen to and understand the relevant issues. The Legal 500 recorded that Geoff “is an excellent listener”, perhaps one of the most important skills a successful mediator needs to possess. His aim is always to assist the parties to reach an amicable solution that meets their concerns through constructive discussions.

Testimonials from those with whom he has worked during mediations speak of Geoff's patient, calm, logical and constructive approach; his hard work, great effort and ability to grasp the issues; the fact that he is well prepared; his ability to allow time to parties to explain their concerns and in turn to listen to those concerns; his knowledge and expertise in the relevant field, and his being an excellent communicator. .

His extensive experience when in private practice now reflected in his mediation career include cases involving proprietary estoppel, will validity, the interpretation of a will or trust, those brought or defended under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 and cases involving difficulties in the administration of an estate when acting for executors and trustees, or beneficiaries.

He also brings to the role of mediator judicial insight, as he sat for six years as a Deputy District Judge on the Western Circuit.  When in private practice Geoff was a member of the Charity Law Association and for 20 years a full member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists.

Geoff lives in the New Forest with his wife and1 cat.