It has been a year since Conall Ryan joined Cartridges Law as Partner and Head of the Estate Planning team, bringing with him more than two decades of experience in wills, probate, estate administration, inheritance tax planning and agricultural estates. As a Fellow of the Agricultural Law Association and a fully accredited member of both the Association of Lifetime Lawyers and the Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners (STEP), he has brought valuable additional specialist expertise to the firm and clients.
Reflecting on his first year, Conall said:
“My first year at Cartridges Law has been fantastic. I appreciate and enjoy working for an independent firm that can offer a full, dedicated service to clients. One of the real strengths of Cartridges Law is the breadth of expertise we have in-house, while still offering the exceptional, personalised service you expect from a smaller firm.”
Expert guidance for every stage of estate planning
As a multi-specialism firm, Cartridges Law is well placed to support clients whose estate planning needs extend beyond wills and probate. Conall regularly works alongside colleagues from other departments to provide joined-up legal advice.
“Estate planning often involves much more than simply drafting a will,” he explained. “You might have a property that needs to be sold, rented out or, in some cases, recovered through possession proceedings. There may be commercial assets that require specialist advice, or tax issues that need careful planning. Being able to work with colleagues across the firm means clients receive a complete service without needing to instruct multiple solicitors.”
For Conall, working on complex estates, where different specialisms come together, is particularly rewarding.
“I enjoy working on estates where there are lots of different pieces to bring together. That might involve inheritance tax planning, land or agricultural assets, specialist valuations, or working with genealogists and other experts to trace beneficiaries and resolve issues. Every case presents its own challenges, and helping clients reach the best outcome is incredibly rewarding.”
This collaborative approach means clients benefit from access to expertise across conveyancing, housing, commercial property and dispute resolution.
Conall believes that Cartridges Law offers a different kind of legal service.
“Many clients tell us they choose Cartridges Law because they want a more personal service. They want to know who is dealing with their matter and have direct access to that person. We take pride in building those relationships and in providing excellent communication and client care. And if the lawyer handling your matter is ever unavailable when you contact us, we make sure someone from our small but dedicated team can step in and help, ensuring clients feel supported throughout.”
Investing in the future of Cartridges Law
Since joining Cartridges Law, Conall has expanded the department’s specialist knowledge while embracing the firm’s commitment to developing talent from within. He has developed relationships with a range of local businesses and specialist advisers, inviting them in to share their expertise on topics including capacity assessments, probate contents valuations, inheritance tax planning, financial advisors and accountants. This collaborative approach has helped broaden the team’s knowledge and further enhance the service offered to clients.
One milestone Conall is particularly proud of is seeing members of the team continue to develop professionally. As Kathryn Battey, Solicitor in the Estate Planning team explains:
“Working with Conall over the past year has been very rewarding. From day one he has been approachable, invested in our training, and committed to helping the team grow. His specialist expertise and willingness to share it have made a real difference to our development, and it’s great to be part of such a close‑knit, supportive team.”
The firm’s commitment to nurturing talent aligns closely with Conall’s own approach to leadership. Since joining Cartridges Law, he has fostered a supportive environment where learning and development are encouraged at every level.
Looking ahead to his second year, Conall is excited about continuing to develop both the team and the services it offers.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to grow the knowledge and experience within the team and building on what we’ve achieved so far. We have a great group of people here and there is real potential to further expand our offer to clients in the future.”
Managing Partner Victoria Matthews welcomed Conall’s contribution to the firm:
“Conall has been with us for one year, and what a year it has been. He has settled into the team and the wider firm with ease, bringing a wealth of experience and specialist expertise. Most importantly, he shares our commitment to providing trusted, practical advice and exceptional client service.”
Here for you when it matters
Whether preparing a will, advising on powers of attorney, or helping families navigate a complex estate, Conall and the Estate Planning team provide clear, practical advice tailored to every client’s unique circumstances.
If you would like advice on wills, probate, estate administration, powers of attorney or inheritance tax planning, contact the Estate Planning team at Cartridges Law today.