For the latest instalment of our Keeping up with the Banner Joneses series, we sat down with Will Writer Aimee Gill, part of the firm’s private client team based in Sheffield city centre to discuss the path that led her into law, the importance of putting plans in place for the future, and some of the more unusual requests she has encountered along the way.
Tell us a little about your role at Banner Jones. What does a typical day look like?
I'm one of the will writers in the private client team, focusing mainly on wills and lasting powers of attorney, although we also deal with probate matters and trust work.
Every day is different because every client has different circumstances and a different story to tell. I spend a lot of time meeting people face to face, understanding what they want to achieve, advising them on all the options and helping them make the right decisions for themselves and their families.
I enjoy the fact that it isn't simply about drafting documents. It's about understanding people, their circumstances and their wishes and then giving them the advice that goes alongside that.
What do you enjoy most about the job?
Definitely the people side of things.
I enjoy building relationships with clients and getting to know them over time. In previous roles, I worked much more remotely, whereas here everything is much more personal and client-focused.
A client might come to us for their first will, then return when they get married, have children or start a business. Being able to support them through different stages of life is really rewarding.
How did you end up working in law?
It's funny because, when I was younger, I actually wanted to become a doctor. Then I realised that science and the sight of blood weren't really for me.
I decided to study law at A level, really enjoyed it and thought it might be something I could pursue professionally. Although I'm not helping people medically, I'd still like to think I'm making a difference in some way.
Did you always know that private client work was the area you wanted to specialise in?
Not at all. I fell into it, really.
After finishing university, I was keen to gain experience in a law firm and started working in private client as an administrative assistant. Over time, I took on more responsibility, developed my own caseload and realised how much I enjoyed it.
The work is fascinating because you hear so many different stories and get an insight into family dynamics. I knew fairly early on that the corporate side of law wasn't for me. I much prefer dealing directly with people.
You're Sheffield born and bred, aren't you?
I am. I grew up in Stannington and went to Bradfield School before studying in Sheffield as well.
I've always liked the city. There are plenty of great places to eat and drink, and it's nice being surrounded by the countryside while still having everything a city has to offer.
Working in your field, you must hear some unusual requests from time to time.
Absolutely.
A lot of the more unusual requests involve funeral arrangements. I've had clients ask for their ashes to be placed inside fireworks, while others have wanted them scattered in the Champagne region of France.
One client wanted their family to hold a meeting after their death where everyone would have to make a case for why they should inherit a particular item. That was certainly memorable.
There must be difficult moments as well.
Of course. We work with people who have experienced bereavement or who are going through extremely challenging periods in their lives.
Some clients have lost children, while others may be seriously ill or approaching the end of their lives. Those situations are never easy, but it's important to support people and ensure that everything is in place for them and their families.
Many people put off making a will. Why do you think that is?
I think people simply don't like talking about death.
I hear clients say all the time that they've been meaning to sort things out for years but have kept putting it off. In reality, though, taking that first step gives people peace of mind because they know they've got everything in place.
Families are often blended, people may own businesses, have vulnerable beneficiaries or want to protect assets for future generations. Our role is to understand those individual circumstances and make sure the will achieves exactly what the client wants while avoiding potential problems further down the line.
Clients often tell us they appreciate having someone they can sit down with and talk things through. Having a local expert to guide you through the process and explain everything in plain English gives people confidence and reassurance.
What advice would you give to business owners in particular?
Business owners invest huge amounts of time, money and energy into building their businesses, but many people don't think about what would happen if they became unable to manage things themselves.
Wills are important, but lasting powers of attorney are equally essential. Business owners should be asking themselves who would take over running the business, how employees would be paid and who would be able to access business accounts if something happened unexpectedly.
Putting plans in place now means the business has the best possible chance of continuing in the future.
Finally, what do you enjoy doing outside work?
If you ask anyone in the office, they'll probably tell you I'm always on holiday.
I love travelling, and I always like having something booked. Mallorca is a favourite for a long weekend away, while Las Vegas is probably the most memorable place I've visited.
I'm heading back there later this year before travelling on to Canada with my partner and family, so that's definitely something I'm looking forward to.
