Keri Wood is a senior associate, full STEP member and full member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, recognised for her expertise in private client work. She also serves as one of three mental health first aiders in the firm and is the mental health lead for the Warwickshire Law Society (WLS). Keri was named WLS Young Lawyer of the Year 2018 and is recognised as a star associate in the Chambers & Partners High Net Worth Guide 2025.
What was your career path to your current role?
I did a week’s work experience in the local authority’s legal department when I was 15 and I knew then that I wanted a career in law. I joined Band Hatton Button in 2006 as a receptionist, having just commenced my studies with the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx). I worked full time and studied at college and at home in the evenings with the support of Band Hatton Button.
I eventually qualified in 2016 as a chartered legal executive, whilst working in the wills, trusts and probate team. I was made an associate in 2022 and then senior associate in 2024.
Did you have any other career ambitions?
I wanted to gain as much knowledge as possible in my field and so I undertook further studies to become a full Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP) member, which I achieved in 2020 during lockdown… on maternity leave! I’m also a fully accredited member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, providing specialist advice for older and vulnerable people and their families.
Mental health is also a huge part of my career and in 2023 I became a mental health first aider along with two other colleagues. Last year I became the mental health lead for the Warwickshire Law Society and I hope to organise an event this year for its members on this topic.
What keeps you motivated in your work?
The satisfaction of helping families during a time of grief and sadness is why I do what I do.
This job can be extremely difficult at times, dealing with the affairs of a deceased, sometimes in the saddest of circumstances and so to receive positive, appreciative feedback from clients is so meaningful and really keeps you focused.
What has been the best development in wills and probate in the last 20 years?
I would say the online probate application process. No more swearing oaths with clients!
And the worst?
The Trust Registration Service (TRS). Whilst I understand the logic for it, from a practical point of view it causes a lot of administrative complications!
If you could bring in one new piece of legislation for the sector, what would it be and why?
I think it would be some form of tax relief for co-habitees. Not everyone wants to get married, yet only spouses and civil partners can benefit from tax relief during their lifetime and on death.
What piece of legislation would you take off the statute books and why?
The new pension changes due next year. This will create a headache for advisers in all areas, not to mention for our clients. Inheritance tax (IHT) may become payable by otherwise non-IHT payers. There is so much to consider both for estate planning and estate administration.
What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you regarding your career?
Don’t worry until there’s something to worry about!
What advice would you like to give to someone just starting out?
Get your practical experience wherever you can and always try to do some research before asking for help. Good research skills are essential!
Tell us something people may be surprised to know about you…
Despite the accolades, I have major imposter syndrome!
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