MEET APRIL AND LAUREN Part of the growing team at Glanvilles Damant

The team at Glanvilles Damant continues to grow in number and experience. Solicitors April Newton and Lauren Elliott give us an insight into life in the law and what inspires them in their work.

What is your role at Glanvilles Damant?

Lauren Elliott: I’m a Partner in the Property Department at Glanvilles Damant Limited.

April Newton: I’m a Partner in the Private Client Department at Glanvilles Damant Limited.

How long have you been with Glanvilles Damant and what was your position within the company previously?

Lauren: I joined Glanvilles LLP as a Trainee Solicitor in 2011 and progressed at the firm through qualification as a Solicitor in 2013, all the way up to Partner level this year.

April: I joined Glanvilles in February 2017 as a Solicitor in the Private Client team

What do you love about your particular department?

Lauren: I thoroughly enjoy working within our Property Department as we have a wonderful team full of experience and knowledge. No one day is the same and the fast-paced nature of the work certainly keeps you on your toes.

April: I love the variety of my role. I can shift from assisting those recently bereaved, to drafting Wills and Trusts, to administering complex estates involving lengthy tax calculations. Most of all I enjoy working with my team. Everyone brings a different skill set, but all are committed to providing a great service to clients with empathy and understanding.

Have you ever come across a legal case or element of law which has surprised you?

Lauren: All property transactions are different, despite mainly following the same procedural format. The recent case law on Rent Charge Deeds, in particular, has caused several issues for modern build developments. Rent Charge Deeds are commonly found on titles to properties which were built in the last 20 years as part of large developments. The ramifications of not having these Deeds varied to be brought up to currently accepted mortgage lender standards could leave a property unmortgageable in the future, due to the enforcement provisions which are available to rent charge owners.

April: Whilst training I was really surprised to learn that if you die without a Will your estate may not pass wholly to your spouse. This is a common misconception and can cause a lot of problems in families at a time when emotions are running high.

Tell us something about yourself that people don’t know about you.

Lauren: I am a keen sports enthusiast — in particular football. I played for Brighton and Hove Albion when studying at University, and for our local Isle of Wight team, Shanklin Ladies, since the age of 14. I have also represented the Isle of Wight at the international Island Games Event as part of the Ladies Football team; it’s a real passion.

April: In 2020 I was appointed as the Under Sheriff for the Isle of Wight. This is a very special role which involves deputising for the High Sheriff when required and providing advice and guidance to them during their shrieval year. I don’t get a fancy outfit, but I do have an Under Sheriff’s staff which James Attrill DL kindly presented me with at the end of his year as High Sheriff.

What’s your favourite place on the Island to escape to for some relaxation and to unwind?

Lauren: Colwell Bay on a summer’s day. You could easily mistake yourself for being in the Mediterranean. Nothing beats the Island’s coastline on a summer’s day.

April: I love to walk and the view from Brighstone Down across the English Channel is breathtaking.