Ryedale lawyer awarded 'gold standard' accreditation

Emma Silkstone, solicitor in our Private Client team, has been recognised with a national accreditation for her expertise in legal support for older and vulnerable clients, their families and carers.

The accreditation is awarded by SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly), the organisation setting the standards for the highest quality legal advice in specialist areas, such as Wills, powers of attorney and elder abuse.

To achieve accreditation, lawyers are required to undertake assessment to demonstrate solid understanding of the specific needs and considerations required when safeguarding and protecting older clients’ interests. 

Members of SFE have a wealth of experience within this key legal area and they are required to have spent a substantial amount of time working for elderly clients so you can be confident about the service you receive.

Advice may be about selling your home, making a Will or gifts or estate planning. Members can also offer guidance on immediate care insurance plans, funding long term care as well as contracts for care homes.

Emma Silkstone, Solicitor and SFE full accredited member, said:

“Working from both our Pickering and Malton offices means I can provide legal services to people who live and work in and around Ryedale. I like to ensure that clients feel at ease when talking to me and make sure that they are always able to understand and feel comfortable with the advice I am giving. Being a full accredited member of SFE recognises my commitment to provide and promote high-quality legal services for older people, their family and carers.”

Lakshmi Turner, Chief Executive of SFE, said:

“When it comes to planning ahead for later life, getting the right advice is essential. An SFE accredited lawyer is an expert in this area of the law and understands the wider, often sensitive, issues around health, care and family that may need consideration. SFE lawyers understand the issues affecting older and vulnerable clients and follow a strict code of practice with respect and dignity at its heart. 

“Ultimately, choosing an SFE lawyer means you’ll be guided through this complex and sensitive area of law and will enable you to lay solid foundations to protect you and your loved ones in later life.”

The main areas of law members cover are:

In order to be a fully accredited member, lawyers must have a minimum of three years’ experience advising in areas of older client law and have completed the Older Client Care in Practice Award – a qualification which demonstrates the specialist client care skills that enable lawyers to advise and support older and vulnerable clients.

Members are also required to continuously update their knowledge with training and produce an annual statement of competence, which ensures they maintain their expertise. To find out more about our SFE members click here. To contact Emma Silkstone directly, click here.