Citywealth Leaders List, 60 seconds interview – John Tunnard, Partner, Shakespeare Martineau
This week’s 60-second Citywealth Leaders List interview is dedicated to John Tunnard, Partner, Shakespeare Martineau.
Tell Citywealth readers a bit about your role.
I am a Partner in our Trusts and Estates Disputes Team and Head of the firm’s Bristol Office.
I act for trustees, executors and beneficiaries alike in a range of domestic estate/probate claims and trust disputes with international elements.
What does a typical day look like for you?
The area of law in which I work is extremely varied so no day is ever the same – this is the element I enjoy most about the work I do. Typically cases I deal with involve elements of probate, trusts, land and tax law. There is also a requirement to grapple with often quite stressful and emotional situations for clients which can be a challenge. The variety of work day-to-day also provides opportunities to collaborate with my colleagues in the firm’s Private Client, Family, Corporate and Charity Teams.
Tell us about some recent, interesting client instructions/requests you have received.
I recently acted for a major UK charity in a multi-million pound estate that fell to be dealt with under a home-made Will. The Will contained numerous handwritten alterations and deletions giving rise to issues of interpretation and construction. The Deceased was domiciled in the UK but had assets in other jurisdictions which affected the legal and tax position.
I am currently working on numerous trust disputes involving valuable family companies and two high-value inheritance act claims by spouses where the couples entered into nuptial agreements. This is particularly interesting (I think!) where there is little by way of case precedent on the interplay between nuptial agreements and inheritance claims, but also given recent developments in the Family law arena on the treatment of such agreements and of matrimonial/non-matrimonial property.
What challenges do your clients face and how are you helping them to overcome them?
Trust and estate disputes often involve family members. Tensions and emotions run high and form the backdrop against which the legal arguments are made. It is vital that any practitioner dealing with this type of work is empathetic to the client’s situation, whilst remaining focused on the client’s objectives and the management of their expectations. Working collaboratively with your opposing legal team, where possible, can assist in achieving a sensible outcome for all involved.
What is your proudest professional achievement?
Becoming Partner and Head of Office within the Firm.
What do you consider to be the most important attributes for a leader?
To lead by example, build trust, empower others, celebrate team successes, be accountable, and communicate clearly.
Who do you most admire and why?
My father who practised law for over 40 years and who, throughout his career gained (and retained) the trust and admiration of his clients and colleagues. He always treated clients, staff, and his opposite number with respect and courtesy and, as any lawyer should, acted with the greatest integrity and empathy.
Where was the last place you travelled to for work or pleasure?
Chicago earlier in the year. I was invited out there to play a gig.
If you weren’t in this industry, what else might you be doing?
The above answer gives it away a bit, but, as a passionate musician, I would work within the music industry. Fortunately in my role as a lawyer, I keep my toe in the water by representing clients in navigating issues relating to IP and royalties within literary estates.
How do you relax after a long day?
Sitting down on a Friday night with my favourite record on and a whisky!
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