In a series of Supporters in Focus pieces, we are thrilled to introduce our Judges of The British Wills and Probate Awards 2021
Alongside headline sponsor Executor Solutions we look forward to recognising achievement, highlighting progression and championing innovation.
However, the awards couldn’t take place without the hard task of judging and shortlisting the entries. It’s not a task many would take on, but we are extremely grateful to those that have.
Today we profile Trevor Worth, a new judge to the British Wills and Probate Awards.
We’re delighted to have you with us for the fourth year of The British Wills & Probate Awards. First of all, tell us who you are and what you do
My name is Trevor Worth and I founded my firm Portcullis Legals as a 23 year old over three decades ago. We are a full service estate planning practice under the IPW and have just added a full solicitors practice under the SRA too. I’m also Vice Chair of the IPW.
What initially sparked your interest in the sector?
Realising that as a young person there was a huge opportunity ,as the sector was full of dull, process driven, poor value for money and lack of excellent customer service individuals and firms that could be improved upon without much effort. There is still so much to improve in the sector even all these years on and innovation is a way of being, not just a catchy word to throw about.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the Wills and Probate sector?
Be different. Stand out in a crowded market by creating your own path and also ensure you give your time to help and support others as we should all do good whilst doing business.
What improvements do you think could be made to the Wills and Probate sector?
Greater transparency in pricing and qualifications. The public deserve to know what fees they are potentially incurring and just as importantly, they deserve to know the qualifications of the person sat in front of them. I am still convinced that will writing needs regulation as there are far too many individuals in the sector with no qualifications whatsoever as there are no barriers to entry and no compulsory DBS checks to protect the public.
As a Judge of the awards, what will you be looking for to identify that winning entry?
Innovation, consistency and delivery of service with the customer or the end user at the forefront of the process
How important do you think it is to recognise achievement in the sector?
It is very important! When you compare the amount of awards and events in the financial services sector for example, we are a long way behind still. Recognition for individuals or teams is a terrific boost in morale but it also adds to the bottom line too, as an award enhances credibility and profile in your own area of operation as we found out in 2019.
What are the most prominent challenges the industry is facing at the moment?
It is fantastic to see so many firms truly embracing technology but I do worry about the quality and calibre of those individuals dispensing the advice on the end of these Zoom, Teams or FaceTime calls. I do wish the public had a register of qualified individuals to check upon when engaging estate planners and just maybe, that day is just around the corner…
Thank you to Trevor Worth for your support for The British Wills & Probate Awards 2021.
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