Jody is well known for his experience in disputes over the ownership of property, particularly between unmarried cohabitants. In ‘the park bench case’ Ely v Robson [2016] EWCA Civ 774, [2017] 1 FLR 1704, Jody represented the successful party before the Court of Appeal in a long running dispute about ownership of property. Jody also represents parties in ‘constructive trust’ and ‘proprietary estoppel’ cases, including those involving farms or family businesses.

Jody is frequently instructed in contentious probate cases, where the validity of a will is challenged. Jody is uniquely well placed to advise parties to claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. This difficult jurisdiction combines elements of matrimonial and probate law, and he has the ideal skill set, with experience in both areas.

Jody is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, and frequently advises on difficult legal issues that arise in the administration of trusts and estates. In Berry v Child Support Agency
[2016] EWHC 1418 (Ch), [2016] WTLR 1327, [2016] BPIR 1256, Jody represented the estate in a complex dispute, involving insolvency law, where there were competing claims by the deceased’s creditors, spouse and the Child Support Agency.

Cases

See all

Resources

See all

  • Qualifications:

    • 2011 STEP Diploma in Trusts and Estates
    • 2005 BVC & CPE, Inns of Court School of Law
    • 2002 MA in Modern History, Distinction, University of York
    • 2001 BA (Hons.) in History, First Class, Bristol University.
      2004 Inner Temple Major Scholar (BVC)
    • 2003 Inner Temple Major Scholar (CPE)
    • 2001 George Hare Leonard Prize from Bristol University for best degree in year

  • Professional memberships:

    • Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP, Full Member)
    • Chancery Bar Association
    • Family Law Bar Association
    • Western Circuit

  • Jody Atkinson is regulated by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and holds a current practising certificate. If you are not satisfied with the service provided, please read here.