Michelle Phillips is a Chartered Legal Executive and Private Client specialist at Lawsmith Solicitors. She graduated with an LLB (Hons) from the Open University in 2013 and went on to complete her professional practice qualifications through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX), focusing on Wills, Probate, Conveyancing and Client Care. She is now a fully qualified CILEX Fellow.

Michelle began her legal career with a London-based law firm specialising in personal injury litigation, gaining early experience in case management, client support, and navigating the civil claims process. After starting her family, she transitioned into the private client sector — a field that aligns naturally with her empathetic, patient, and detail-oriented approach. She has since built a strong and respected practice in Wills, Probate and Estate Administration.

Throughout her career, Michelle has managed a broad spectrum of estates, ranging from straightforward matters to high-value and complex estates involving multifaceted assets, family arrangements, or international considerations. She has completed intricate HMRC Inheritance Tax (IHT) submissions, including the IHT400 and accompanying schedules, and is experienced in preparing estate accounts and corresponding with HM Revenue & Customs on behalf of executors. Her ability to simplify complex tax and probate requirements is highly valued by clients navigating emotionally challenging periods.

As an experienced Will writer, Michelle works closely with clients to understand their wishes, provide clear guidance on inheritance tax implications, and draft Wills tailored to their personal circumstances. Her warm, caring manner — combined with her professional diligence — has led to frequent recommendations from past clients and strong ongoing relationships with families she has supported through the estate administration process.

Michelle is committed to delivering a probate service that is efficient, transparent, and compliant with all due-diligence requirements. She is known for her thoroughness, her calm and supportive communication style, and her ability to manage sensitive family dynamics with professionalism and empathy. Her role at Lawsmith Solicitors reflects her passion for helping individuals and families secure clarity, peace of mind and the legal protection they need.

Qualifications:
CILEX Fellow (FCILEX)
LLB (Hons), The Open University

Interests:
Outside of legal practice, Michelle enjoys spending quality time with her family and two young children. She also has a love for films, reading, and keeping active.