Ruth Giddings

Senior associate

Ruth is a senior associate in the contentious private client team, with extensive experience representing private individuals, trustees, and charities in both domestic and international trust and estate disputes. She advises clients on a broad spectrum of issues, including claims arising from disputed wills, breaches of trust, the administration of estates, proprietary estoppel, professional negligence, and matters under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. She is also expanding her practice in matters involving the Court of Protection, representing individuals with family members or friends who lack mental capacity.

Frequently, Ruth’s practice involves cross-border matters, and her comprehensive expertise allows her to handle the full range of legal complexities that arise. She has a deep understanding of the unique legal and emotional challenges clients face, offering practical and strategic advice that ensures they are supported throughout the process.

I understand how overwhelming and unfamiliar trust and estate disputes can feel for clients. I guide them through this complex process with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome, always with their needs and peace of mind at the forefront.

Ruth Giddings, Senior associate

One of Ruth’s particular areas of focus is alternative dispute resolution and resolving disputes outside of the courtroom, helping clients achieve effective solutions while minimising the stress and cost of formal proceedings. However, where necessary, Ruth is equally adept at navigating complex cases in court.

Ruth is studying towards her STEP Diploma in the Administration of Trusts and Estates and has completed the first two modules with distinction, further deepening her expertise in this area. She is also a member of the Contentious Trusts Association, a network for contentious trust professionals, which allows her to stay at the forefront of developments in this dynamic area of law.

Recent work highlights

Professional trustee

Acting for a professional trustee in an application to the Jersey court to bless a “momentous decision” as per Public Trustee v Cooper [2001] WTLR 901.

Executor removal claim

Representing the claimant in Schumacher v Clarke & ors [2021] WTLR 353 in an executor removal claim and ultimate blessing application in the estate of architect Zaha Hadid.

Will validity

Challenging a will’s validity successfully at court on the grounds of lack of testamentary capacity, lack of knowledge and/or approval and undue influence.

Misappropriation of assets

Bringing a successful application for proprietary and freezing injunctions on behalf of an estate where assets had been misappropriated.

Professional negligence

Representing a high-net-worth individual in professional negligence proceedings, which included making a successful application to court to rescind a trust based on the doctrine of mistake.

International estate executor

Negotiating the removal of an executor to an international estate after a breakdown in relations with the residuary beneficiaries.