Biography
Related services
Memberships
The Law Society
STEP
Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPs)
Kelly Noel-Smith
Partner, Private ClientKelly specialises in advising wealthy individuals and families on tax and succession issues. Most of her work has an international dimension. She advises on the creation and operation of asset-holding structures and family offices to ensure wealth preservation and good family governance.
She is the College of Law’s expert on foreign aspects of UK tax law. She contributes regularly to tax journals and is a co-author of a chapter in Tolley’s “Tax on Transactions”.
The current Citywealth Leaders' list comments, "Kelly is one of the best private client lawyers in London. She is a pleasure to work with, very responsive and her advice is always clear and cuts through the complexities". Legal 500 2018 describes Kelly as an "exceptional lawyer. She is very competent and is involved in some high value and complex work –which she handles with aplomb". Legal 500 2020 describes Kelly as "Very approachable and provides excellent, timely service. She is involved in high value complex structures and is very effective in the advice she provides". Chambers HNW Guide 2020 states "She is brilliant. She is technically incredibly strong and charming to deal with". Kelly has been named in Legal Week's 'Private Client Global Elite' list each year from inception.
Kelly is ranked in the Chambers HNW 2021 guide for her work in private wealth law.
Kelly worked at Slaughter and May (where she qualified) for four years and then Lawrence Graham before becoming Head of tax and private client at Radcliffes 2001-09. She has been a Partner at Forsters LLP since 2009. She heads the firm's Sustainability Board and is Forsters' CSR Partner.
The Life Cycle of Family Wealth
From growing a business to starting a family or handing over control of that business to the next generation, every individual has their own goals to aspire to. Our Private Wealth lawyers advise our clients throughout this family life cycle, providing the legal advice required for specific transactions such as purchasing a home or selling a business, whilst also advising on the long-term opportunities for succession and estate planning.
Our Sustainability Hub
Our sustainability hub brings together insights and legal expertise on a broad range of environmental matters that affect our clients' business and personal affairs.
Awards and recognitions
My articles and links
“Kelly's ability to put herself in the shoes of her client is something that really stands out about her. She is really good at putting the client first.” Chambers HNW Guide, 2021
"Very approachable and provides excellent, timely service. She is involved in high value complex structures and is very effective in the advice she provides." THE Legal 500, 2020