Sophie McDonnell

Sophie McDonnell is an Associate Chartered Legal Executive in Boyes Turner’s Dispute Resolution team and has over 20 years experience. Sophie has expertise in a wide range of contentious matters but specialises in commercial litigation, acting in both the pursuit and defence of claims of variable values and complexity across a variety of sectors. Sophie advises clients throughout the entire dispute resolution process, from early-stage strategic advice and pre-action negotiations through to court proceedings, trial and enforcement, always focusing on achieving practical and commercially effective outcomes. Sophie also has expertise in shareholder disputes, breaches of restrictive covenants, injunctive relief, company restorations, disputed insolvency proceedings and professional negligence claims.

Sophie also advises private individuals on a broad range of contentious probate and inheritance disputes. This includes claims for reasonable and financial provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, undue influence, capacity and breakdown in relationships between executors and beneficiaries. She understands the sensitive and often highly personal nature of these disputes and provides clear, compassionate guidance throughout the process. Her empathetic approach, combined with her litigation experience, helps clients navigate what can be an emotionally challenging time while remaining focused on achieving a fair and practical resolution.”

Sophie also provides invaluable support to senior lawyers within the group contributing her expertise to a variety of higher value complex litigation disputes.

Sophie is currently working completing the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS) training programme and is working towards Associate Membership of ACTAPS.

Sophie is known for her pragmatic and commercially focused approach to dispute resolution. She takes the time to understand her clients’ objectives, the wider commercial context and the potential impact a dispute may have on their business or personal circumstances. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience, she provides clear, straightforward advice that enables clients to make informed decisions with confidence. Clients value her calm and measured approach, her ability to simplify complex issues and her commitment to achieving practical, cost-effective solutions wherever possible. When advising individuals on contentious probate matters her empathy and ability to reassure clients helps to guide them through the stresses of litigation in this area.

Sophie also has an interest in advising private individuals in contentious will disputes and a particular interest in claims for reasonable and financial provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. Her empathy and ability to reassure clients helps to guide them through the stresses of litigation in this area.

Sophie regularly shares her expertise on dispute resolution, contentious probate and inheritance matters through articles published in leading legal and professional publications, including Today’s Wills & Probate, Estate Research and Expert Witness Journal. Her contributions demonstrate her in-depth knowledge of these areas and her commitment to keeping up to date with legal developments, emerging issues and best practice within the profession.