Graeme is a highly regarded Private Client Solicitor with almost 25 years’ experience and a key member of Thorntons Specialist Private Client team in Edinburgh and Glasgow. He provides expert advice to individuals and families on a broad spectrum of issues, including Wills, Powers of Attorney, Executries, succession planning, generational wealth transfer, and asset protection.
Drawing on his litigation background, Graeme has developed particular expertise in contentious and complex executry and trust matters, often navigating multi-faceted legal challenges that involve agricultural estates, trusts, and corporate elements.
His client base includes individuals and families managing substantial estates and generational wealth, incapacitated adults requiring personal injury trusts, and non-UK clients seeking clarity on Scots law entitlements in contentious estates. Graeme has led notable matters such as advising on the establishment and ongoing management of discretionary trusts for underage beneficiaries after sudden bereavements, securing multi-jurisdictional protections for incapacitated adults following catastrophic injuries, and successfully pursuing claims for estranged children relating to aliment payments. He has also achieved favourable settlements with HMRC and the DVO concerning inheritance tax and capital gains tax exposures in complex estates, and he advises on succession planning strategies that significantly reduce tax liabilities. His work extends to safeguarding National Heritage items as bequests to mitigate tax exposure while ensuring public access to valuable artwork.
Graeme’s professional background is marked by his attainment of the prestigious STEP (Solicitors for the Trusts and Estates Practitioners) qualification, underscoring his commitment to excellence. Recognised as an expert in his field, he is regularly consulted by journalists and has appeared on national and local radio, including BBC Radio 4 and Radio Scotland, offering insights on high-profile private client matters. He has authored articles in leading publications such as The Scotsman and The Herald and has spoken at prominent conferences on topics including Powers of Attorney and evolving legal practices.
Beyond his client work, Graeme’s support of community projects extends into the charitable sector, where he serves as a Director of three local charities and as a trustee on multiple trusts. Through his extensive experience, professional qualifications, and community involvement, Graeme continues to provide knowledgeable, sensitive, and practical guidance to his clients through all stages of life, especially during challenging times of loss and transition.
