Advice Centre

IMD Solicitors LLP has announced the appointment of Andrew McManus as a Partner, strengthening the firm’s expertise in contentious trusts and probate. Andrew joins the Partnership to lead the firm’s Contentious Trusts and Probate practice, bringing more than 15 years of experience in trust and estate disputes.

His practice covers contentious probate disputes including will validity challenges, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, executor, trustee and fiduciary disputes, multi-jurisdictional succession and estate matters, civil litigation linked to private wealth, and contested Court of Protection proceedings. Andrew is recognised by The Legal 500 (2024) as “the standout lawyer – he is technically very astute.”

He has acted in a broad range of reported and unreported matters before the High Court and the Court of Protection, often involving complex and high-value estates with international elements. His experience spans disputes concerning wills, inheritance claims, trust administration, fiduciary responsibilities, and capacity issues. Andrew is also regularly instructed in cases where sensitive family dynamics and cross-border considerations intersect with the administration of estates.

Before joining IMD, Andrew held senior positions at Knights and Gateley Legal and earlier trained with regional firms where he gained experience across commercial and private wealth litigation. In addition to representing clients in disputes, he also accepts appointments as an independent administrator and has acted as an independent personal representative.

His appointment aligns with IMD Solicitors’ focus on building specialist teams to serve clients with international and cross-border interests. The firm has offices in London, Manchester, and Birmingham and provides legal services in family law, corporate and commercial law, dispute resolution, immigration, and private client matters. IMD is known for advising clients whose personal and business lives span multiple jurisdictions, with particular focus on international families and global wealth. The firm has been recognised by The Times as one of the UK’s Best Places to Work.

Commenting on his appointment, Andrew said:
“I am pleased to be joining IMD Solicitors as a Partner. The firm’s international focus and values-driven approach provide a strong platform for developing the Contentious Trusts and Probate practice. I look forward to working alongside Iwona Durlak and Marcin Durlak in supporting clients through complex estate and trust disputes.”

Managing Partner Iwona Durlak added:
“We are pleased to welcome Andrew to the Partnership. His experience in contentious probate and trust litigation complements our existing teams and strengthens the support we provide to clients in matters of succession, estates, and cross-border disputes.”

With Andrew’s appointment, IMD Solicitors continues to expand its capabilities across both personal and commercial legal services, building on its reputation as a firm of choice for clients with international connections and complex legal needs.

To find out more about our services, call us 0330 107 0107 or email us at info@imd.co.uk.