I’m a partner in Debenham Ottaway’s award-winning Wills, trusts and probate team and have over 15 years’ experience in private client work. Known for being approachable and efficient, I advise on all aspects of Wills, probate, tax planning and estate administration and care for the elderly which includes Court of Protection work and lasting powers of attorney. I also lead the Debenhams Ottaway Court of Protection Team.

I take pride in helping to make the seemingly daunting aspects of law understandable and accessible.

I’m particularly proud to have been recognised by leading legal guide Chambers High Net Worth for my high-level technical knowledge.

Expertise

I advise a variety of private and high net worth clients based both locally in Hertfordshire and in London in the administration of estates ranging from small through to large complex estates. I am experienced in drafting deeds of variations and assisting executors with their responsibilities.

Clients also seek my expertise in drafting lifetime trusts, including interest in possession trusts, discretionary trusts and declarations of trust.

Whether advising clients who are making a Will for the first time or assisting clients who regularly review their Wills due to changing circumstances, I take an empathetic and pragmatic approach, explaining options in plain English that delivers the optimum bespoke solution.

My experience also includes the fields of care of the elderly, nursing home fees, registration of enduring powers of attorney, lasting powers of attorney and deputyship work, as well as advising clients in relation to deferred payment schemes and disability facilities agreements with the local authority.

I work closely with our Trust Team where deputies and attorneys require advice on trustee matters.

My team and I are committed to raising awareness on important issues on the legal aspects of wealth management and making lawyers more accessible through online blogs and podcasts I also regularly give seminars to clients and referrers on Wills, tax planning and elderly client matters.

I studied a MA in English Literature with Honours at the University of Dundee then completed the Graduate Diploma of Law and Legal Practice Course at the College of Law. I started my training contract with Debenhams Ottaway in 2006 and qualified as a solicitor in 2008, becoming a senior lawyer in 2008 and partner in November 2020.

In Touch

I’m a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and the Private Client Section of the Law Society.

  • Rachel Hyndman is excellent. She is very down to earth and exceptional with clients.

    Chambers High Net Worth Guide

  • Rachel Hyndman is excellent on technically difficult cases. She is completely on top of things.

    Chambers High Net Worth Guide

  • Clients receive a first-class service from Rachel, including high level technical knowledge, delivered in a good, personal manner.

    Chambers High Net Worth Guide

  • I have been very impressed with Rachel Hyndman and Barry Griffin, who provide excellent service, high quality advice and value for money for my clients.

    The Legal 500 UK

  • Rachel Hyndman has an excellent personality and combines an easy to deal with manner, with total expertise and excellence.

    The Legal 500 UK

  • The whole experience of remaking my Will has been made a pleasure by Rachel Hyndman. She was very polite, efficient and knowledgeable and has been able to answer any questions I had. She is a credit to Debenhams Ottaway.

    Mr David Clarke

  • Thank you for all your professional attention, which is much appreciated. I have recently recommended your firm to a friend, because I have been so impressed with your service.

    Client

  • We have been most impressed with your efficiency, approach and clarity. It has been a pleasure having you sort out our wills and LPAs.

    Client

  • Just a note to say thank you very much for your assistance with sorting out my Powers of Attorney and also my Will. You were very helpful and professional and I really do appreciate it.

    Juliet Grainger

  • Not only did Rachel know how to help us with a slightly complicated Will she was friendly and professional and made everything so clear.

    Client

  • Rachel was willing to take on my urgent matter and complete it within a short deadline.

    Client

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