Help for Former McClure Solicitors Clients

McClure Solicitors went into administration in 2021, after a period of financial difficulty. The firm had operated across the UK for many years and was particularly known for setting up Wills, Family Protection Trusts, and Asset Protection Trusts. When the company closed, thousands of clients were left uncertain about where their legal documents were being held and who was responsible for managing their affairs.

Following the closure, McClure’s client files were transferred to other firms, including Jones Whyte LLP in Glasgow. However, communication about this process was inconsistent. Many people were never formally contacted, while others continued to receive correspondence or invoices from third parties without clear explanation. This has led to widespread confusion and concern, particularly for clients in England who are now unsure how Scottish-based arrangements affect them under English law.

If you are in that position, we can review your documents, explain what happened, and ensure your estate planning is legally sound and fully under your control.

In most cases they are, but there are some important points to consider. A Will or Trust that was written by McClure can still be legally valid if it meets the requirements of English law. However, that does not mean it is necessarily suitable for your circumstances today.

Some McClure documents were written using standard templates that did not take each client’s situation into account. Others were designed for use under Scottish law and can cause confusion or legal problems in England and Wales. In some cases, the way property or money was transferred into a Trust has created unexpected tax bills or made it difficult for people to sell or gift assets later.

Our team can review your Will or Trust carefully, explain what it means in plain English, and identify any potential issues. If changes are needed, we will make the process straightforward and transparent.

When McClure Solicitors closed, their client files and records were transferred to a Scottish law firm called Jones Whyte LLP. Many clients were unaware of this and later found it difficult to obtain copies of their Wills or Trust deeds. Others have received letters from companies claiming to hold McClure’s files, which can be confusing.

If you are unsure who currently holds your documents, we can help you find out. We have traced missing files for many former McClure clients across England and, where possible, helped them recover their original documents or obtain certified copies. If your documents cannot be located, we can prepare new, legally compliant versions so you have full control and peace of mind.

Yes, we can. Our Private Client team has taken over the management of many Trusts that were originally set up by McClure Solicitors. We will review the trust deed, identify who the current trustees are, and ensure the Trust is still appropriate for your needs and compliant with English law.

In some situations, former McClure employees were named as trustees in the original documents. This means they have remained in control of the Trust even after the firm closed, and some have asked for payment to be removed. If you are in this position, we can review your Trust and advise on the best way to regain full control of your assets. We can also help you appoint new trustees or make other changes if needed.

If you are receiving invoices or letters asking for annual management or maintenance fees for a Trust, do not make any payments until you understand exactly what those fees are for. In many cases, these payments relate to service agreements made with McClure Solicitors, which may no longer apply now that the firm has closed.

We can help you find out whether the charge is genuine, who it has come from, and what your legal options are. If the fee is no longer valid or the service is not being provided, we can help you stop future charges and take back control of your affairs. You should never feel pressured into paying fees that you do not fully understand.