In our Meet the Legal Expert series, we showcase the dedicated professionals at WBW Solicitors who provide expert guidance and compassionate service to our clients. This month, we are delighted to introduce Emma Northover, Partner and Head of the Contentious Probate team. With years of experience in inheritance disputes and civil litigation, Emma has built a reputation for helping clients navigate complex and sensitive cases with empathy and expertise. Here, Emma shares her journey in law, career achievements, and advice for those considering a legal career.
Emma Northover on Her Role and Specialisation
I am a Partner in the Civil Litigation Team, specialising in Contentious Probate and General Civil Litigation.
How long have you been with WBW Solicitors?
I joined WBW Solicitors three years ago in 2021, following the merger with Beviss and Beckingsale.
What inspired you to specialise in your area of law?
When I was little, my Nan would say I was good at arguing, so I think I was destined to become a litigation solicitor!
What was your first full-time job?
I worked as a chalet girl and ski host in the French Alps, which was quite a different environment from law.
What do you enjoy most about working in Honiton?
Honiton has a lot of great cafés with tasty treats, which makes the town a lovely place to work!
Describe a challenging case you’ve worked on and how you approached it.
Every case brings its own unique challenges, whether it involves managing difficult opposing parties or helping clients understand realistic outcomes.
Can you share an achievement in your career that you are particularly proud of?
Being promoted to Partner before I turned 30 was a milestone that I’m very proud of.
What sets WBW Solicitors apart from other law firms?
WBW is a large firm with the feel of a high-street practice, meaning we focus closely on individual client needs.
What do you find most rewarding about working in the legal field?
Helping people. I enjoy supporting individuals through challenging periods in their lives and guiding them through complex situations.
What role does technology play in your practice area, and how do you leverage it?
Technology has improved areas like e-bundles, making medical records and court documents more accessible and manageable. Remote mediations have also become common, saving time and costs for clients.
Can you share a moment where you felt you made a real difference?
One case that stands out was an inheritance claim where we secured funds for a client to install a stairlift in his home, which greatly improved his quality of life. It’s often the little things that have the biggest impact.
What values are most important to you when dealing with clients?
Being open, honest, and empathetic.
What’s the most common misconception people have about your area of law?
Many people believe that a cohabiting partner will automatically inherit, which isn’t the case.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in law?
Gain work experience across different legal fields. Law has a diverse range of areas, and it’s about finding the one that best fits your interests.
What are your top tips for clients?
Be prepared to compromise. Most claims are resolved through negotiation, so having a realistic view of what you are willing to accept can make the process smoother.
How do you manage work-life balance, especially in a demanding field like law?
I am a big fan of making “to-do” lists. It helps me stay focused at work and switch off when I’m done for the day.
An interesting fact about me is…
I have played senior women’s basketball for Wales, representing the country in European tournaments.
Emma’s journey highlights the dedication and personal approach she brings to her work in contentious probate and civil litigation. Her passion for helping clients, combined with her wealth of experience, makes her a vital part of the WBW team. For more information or to discuss any contentious probate issues, feel free to reach out to Emma at emmanorthover@wbw.co.uk.
