Top ranked in the directories, Paul is described as a ‘star litigator' and ‘a formidable opponent.'

Paul specialises in all types of trust and probate disputes. This includes claims about the validity, construction and rectification of wills and trusts, Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 claims, removal of executors and trustees, and contentious estate and trust administrations.

He has a special interest in forfeiture and suicide/ 'mercy killings', with cases including Macmillan Cancer Support v Hayes and Withers Trust Corporation v Estate of Goodman, and deaths at Dignitas.

The Court has appointed him administrator in a number of contentious estates. A barrister interviewed by the leading independent legal directories commented: ‘if I were a client with a contentious trusts or probate claim, I would, without hesitation, go to Paul'.

Paul also advises on contentious Court of Protection matters, both financial, and health and welfare, involving those unable to manage their own affairs. These include statutory will applications and disputes over the appointment or conduct of attorneys and deputies. Occasionally he acts as a ‘litigation friend'.

He also advises on professional negligence claims arising out of trust and estate administration, and failed estate and tax planning.

Paul Hewitt enjoys an excellent reputation for his work on complex private client disputes. "There is a uniquely commercial aspect to his work and he is exceptional at judging whether something is worth running," observes one source. Another comments: "He really knows what he's doing and is absolutely determined to do the best with his clients."

The Lawyer says "There aren't too many lawyers who can claim to have acted in a case spanning more than 70 years concerning two countries, a bank and a former state. However, that is precisely what Paul Hewitt did when representing the 8th Nizam in High Commissioner for Pakistan In the United Kingdom v Prince Muffakham Jah & Ors last year, a dispute linked to a £1m fee that eventually ballooned to £35m."

He heads the firm's work for charities and not-for-profit organisations on legacy income with Stephen Richards.