Meet the team.

Helen Forster
Director

I am a solicitor and Trusts and Estates Practitioner. Since qualifying in 2009, I have specialised in Wills, Probate, Trusts, Tax and Court of Protection matters, and I am a Dementia Champion with Age UK, a member for Solicitors for the Elderly and also a member of STEP (The Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners).

My other work includes seminars, lecturing and training throughout the Country with institutions such as regional Law Societies and MBL Seminars Limited, as well as providing in house training on a number of subjects.

In addition, I also teach night classes at Rossett School Adult Learning in Harrogate, giving individuals an insight into how legal documents such as Lasting Powers of Attorney are drafted, as well as pitfalls and problems.

Over my career I have been highly commended twice in the Yorkshire Legal Awards, as well as receiving an award for second place in the Modern Law Awards 2016 in the category of “Rising Star” in England and Wales.

In my spare time, I like to go rock-climbing or cycling. I am also currently learning ballroom dancing and enjoy handicrafts and chocolate making!

 

Abbie Brackenbury
Trainee Solicitor

I joined the team in April 2023 as a Paralegal having previously worked in the York St John Law Clinic. I am looking forward to putting theory into practice and progressing my legal career at HTF. Since joining I have completed my Legal Practice Course (LPC) and Masters Degree in Law and have been promoted to Trainee Solicitor. I am proud to be a Dementia Friend.

In my spare time I enjoy traveling and learning about different cultures but most of all I love spending time with my family and friends.

 
 

Linda Eriksson
CILEX Paralegal

I joined the team in August 2021 as a trainee paralegal, having previously worked in HR and office management. I am very fortunate to have started my legal career here at HTF Legal and am proud to have since qualified as a CILEX Paralegal. Justice and equality have always been passions of mine, and I am especially interested in the areas of law that help people. I love that I now get to do this on a daily basis, often when people are going through a hard time after losing a loved one. I am also a Dementia Friend.

I grew up in Sweden but have lived in England for nearly twenty years. I originally came here for my love of British music but ended up staying because it feels like home!

 

Leighan Banks
Head of Contentious Probate and Court of Protection

As a specialist in contentious probate, estate disputes and mental capacity matters, I support the team with some of their most complex cases. I started my career as a commercial litigator and have spent the last 6 years working in the contentious private client field using my experience to navigate though some of the most challenging areas of will, trusts and probate disputes and Court of Protection matters on behalf of clients. 

In my spare time I play and captain a netball team and love spending time with my family, friends and my Labrador.

Sandy Reed
Administrative Support

My career has primarily been in the field of financial management and administration, both in the UK and abroad.

I joined the HTF Legal team in May 2023 in the role of administrative manager.

Outside of work I enjoy walking, dressmaking, reading and the occasional 5k Parkrun.  I am also a member of a local choir.

 

Helen is one of the most approachable, experienced and efficient Solicitors I have worked with. Helen is incredibly reliable and well respected in her field and I can honestly say there are no other solicitors out there like her. I would never hesitate in referring work or technical questions to Helen and I feel incredibly blessed to lean on her for her legal knowledge and experience.

— Paige Gouldthorpe
Fosters Solicitors LLP

Helen was an amazing support through a difficult time.
I am very grateful to the whole HTF team.

— SAM O.