Our History
The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, originally known as Solicitors for the Elderly, was formed by a small group of solicitors who had attended a conference together at a conference about older client law in the mid-1990s.
They realised there was a need for a specialist group of lawyers who could advise vulnerable and older clients, in particular on the issues surrounding capacity, delegated decision making, and long-term care. At the time, many firms saw it as an adjunct to probate, wills, and tax planning, but for some they were developing the area as a specialism within their private client department.
In 1999, Solicitors for the Elderly was officially launched at the first national conference in London. Over 100 people attended from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland to hear speakers talk on some of the current issues affecting older clients. From that small group, the organisation has flourished, now including over 1500 members.
In 2023, The Association of Lifetime Lawyers was officially adopted as the new name of the organisation, with the intent of highlighting the comprehensive services that members offer throughout an individual's life, not just during their later years. This new name serves as a reminder of the broad spectrum of skills and expertise that our members possess, and how they can provide support to individuals facing various challenges at any stage of their life.
Members receive monthly newsletters to keep them in touch with the issues that affect vulnerable and older clients; regional and national training provides focused educational development and members can also use a private members forum to post questions about issues they have, which can provide solutions for the not so common problems encountered in legal practice.
The Association of Lifetime Lawyers aims to support members in the work they do and continues to be a member-led organisation.