Profiles
Rod Smith
Formative schooling in Oxfordshire and reading law at University College, London, left me undecided as to what to do next and so I spent two years as a gopher for a City law firm, during which time I discovered the many short cuts (and watering holes) throughout the City and West End.
Guildford College of Law paved the way for a two year training contract with Mayfair firm, Gordon Dadds, and qualification in November 1998.
I then worked at St James's Park and Aldwych based firms before accepting the position of head of department for Wills, Trusts and Probate at Bolt Burdon in September 2001 and partnership in April 2003.
I deal with all aspects of wills, trusts, probate and tax planning work and particularly enjoy the growing number of matters with an international flavour. I also undertake contentious work, surrounding disputes over all aspects of an estate whether the validity of a will or family members' entitlements/claims.
Locally, I am a volunteer with Age Concern Islington and an active member of the Probate Section of the Law Society, British Spanish Law Association and Finsbury Park Business Forum.
Away from the office, I enjoy hill walking and have travelled throughout the UK and beyond in search of a good view. As such, I organised the (ahem) eventful 2004 Bolt Burdon Beano to the South Downs, which was gratefully followed with an evening out in Brighton.
An unorthodox snowboarder, I can be seen most winters careering down the pistes unceremoniously, arms flailing, muttering unmentionables and attempting to catch a reportable amount of air.
phone: 020 7288 4732
e-mail: rodsmith@boltburdon.co.uk