Succession planning: for you and your business

Akeel Latif is a Partner and Head of Corporate and Commercial at Myerson Solicitors. Ranked by Chambers UK and recognised as a Leading Partner by The Legal 500, he advises businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors on mergers and acquisitions, management buyouts, EOTs, equity investments, restructurings, and shareholder matters. With over 25 years at Myerson, Akeel is known for delivering pragmatic, commercially focused advice and has led the growth of one of the North West’s leading corporate teams.

Clara joined Myerson in 2013 and has gained extensive experience in dealing with complex estate planning and trust and estate administration. She completed the STEP diploma in Trusts and Estates in 2014. Clara was promoted to Senior Solicitor in 2016 and became a Partner in 2020.

Clara specialises in estate planning, Wills and trusts, as well as the administration of estates. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). She regularly assists clients in drawing up Wills which are tailored to their specific circumstances and advises on inheritance tax issues. Clara has many years of experience dealing with high-net-worth individuals or those with complicated personal circumstances. She takes an active role in the firm’s agricultural and private wealth sectors.

Clara has extensive experience handling complex and taxable estates. She is also able to advise on the use of trusts and set up trusts within the Will or during a lifetime. She also administers trusts and advises Trustees.

Clara has valuable experience dealing with different family circumstances and is used to dealing with sensitive issues and vulnerable individuals.

Clara is described by clients as approachable, professional, and offering an excellent service. She is regularly ranked in the Legal 500.

Matt Hodgson is a Chartered Tax Adviser and M&A tax partner with over 25 years’ experience advising on buy and sell‑side transactions across all industry sectors. A co‑owner of Claritas Tax, he leads the Manchester office and is known for his hands‑on, deal‑driven approach to helping clients maximise value.

As an Associate Financial Planning Director I work with a broad range of clients providing tailored holistic financial planning advice to private individuals, trustees and business owners with a particular emphasis towards retirement and inheritance tax planning. By focusing on each clients goals and aspirations as a starting point, I am able to create bespoke financial plans and strategies aimed at building wealth, planning for retirement or to ensure assets can be passed tax efficiently to future generations.

I have worked within financial services since completing my degree in Economics from Nottingham Trent University in 2016, initially joining Investec Wealth & Investment, now Rathbones. In my spare time I am kept busy by my family however I also enjoy running, playing golf and supporting Manchester United.