Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Skipton Since 1919
Established in 1919, Walker Foster is a long-standing law firm with offices across Yorkshire and Lancashire, including Skipton, Barnoldswick, Silsden, Settle, Ilkley, Northallerton, and Harrogate. Our practice focuses on delivering client-centred legal solutions for individuals, families, and businesses, combining over a century of experience with a commitment to modern legal challenges. We specialise in litigation and dispute resolution, family law, fixed-fee divorce, residential property, wills and trusts, and commercial legal services. Our team of solicitors and legal professionals prioritises transparency, personalised support, and swift resolution of legal matters. As a firm, we value excellence, client care, and community impact, demonstrated through our Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and recognition in regional and national legal awards.With WF Trust Corporation, our dedicated trust corporation, we provide enduring trustee services that ensure stability and specialist knowledge for trust management. Our approach fosters long-term relationships built on trust, reliability, and a deep understanding of local legal needs. We operate on an appointment-only basis to ensure clients receive focused attention from their assigned legal professionals. Our offices offer accessible, welcoming environments for meetings, with document drop-off facilities for client convenience. Recognised for excellence in contentious probate and conveyancing, we combine traditional values with contemporary legal expertise to serve generations of clients.
Services
Fixed Fee Divorce
Residential Property
Commercial Contracts
Wills and Trusts
Dispute Resolution
Details
- Year established: 1919
Highlights and features
- We have over 100 years of experience in UK legal services.
- Our team includes specialists in contentious probate and conveyancing.
- We operate seven accessible offices across Yorkshire and Lancashire.
- We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA 00629634).
- We combine traditional values with modern legal expertise.
Associations and certifications
- England's Business Awards Best Solicitors in North Yorkshire 2025
- Legal Insider Will Disputes Solicitors of the Year Skipton 2025
- E2 Media Award of Excellence 2025 Practice Law Firm of the Year
- Best Conveyancer Guide 2026
What people say
Wonderful service
Personal connection
Timely results
Expert legal support
Compassionate approach
Services
Fixed Fee Divorce
Our fixed-fee divorce service provides clear, cost-effective legal support for ending marriages. We guide clients through the entire process, from initial paperwork to final settlements, ensuring compliance with UK family law. Clients benefit from transparent pricing and dedicated solicitor support to resolve financial and child custody matters amicably.
Residential Property
We handle all aspects of residential property transactions, including purchases, sales, and remortgages. Our solicitors ensure legal compliance, conduct title checks, and manage contracts to protect client interests. First-time buyers and experienced homeowners receive tailored advice to complete property transfers efficiently and securely.
Wills and Trusts
Our wills and trusts service helps clients protect assets and plan for future distribution. We draft legally binding documents, establish trusts, and provide succession planning advice. Clients receive expert guidance on tax implications and family provision to ensure their wishes are honoured while minimising disputes.
Dispute Resolution
We resolve commercial and personal legal disputes through negotiation, mediation, or court representation. Our team specialises in contract disputes, debt recovery, and property conflicts. Clients benefit from strategic advice aimed at achieving cost-effective outcomes while preserving business and personal relationships.
Commercial Contracts
Our commercial contracts service supports businesses in drafting, reviewing, and enforcing agreements. We cover partnership terms, supplier contracts, and employment documentation to ensure legal compliance. Clients receive practical advice to mitigate risks and maintain clear contractual relationships across all sectors.
People
Katie Ingham
Head of Private Client and Senior Solicitor
Katie specialises in wills, probate, and lasting powers of attorney. With extensive experience in estate planning, she provides compassionate legal guidance to families and individuals, ensuring their wishes are legally protected while offering practical solutions during challenging times.
Catherine Ackroyd
Solicitor
Catherine focuses on family law and divorce proceedings. She combines legal expertise with empathetic client support, helping individuals navigate relationship breakdowns, child arrangements, and financial settlements while prioritising their best interests throughout the process.
Maxine Heppenstall
Managing Director
Maxine leads strategic growth initiatives at Walker Foster. Her leadership has strengthened the firm's contentious probate services, earning industry recognition. She champions client-first values while maintaining the firm's century-old commitment to professional excellence and community engagement.
Alex Richardson
Private Client Solicitor
Alex advises on wills, trusts, and inheritance tax planning. He helps clients structure their estates efficiently while providing clear guidance on trust management, ensuring long-term asset protection and compliance with evolving probate regulations.
Allan Stewart
Senior Solicitor
Allan specialises in commercial property law. He represents businesses in property transactions, lease agreements, and development projects, delivering practical legal solutions that align with clients' operational goals while minimising legal risks.
Questions
What areas do Walker Foster Solicitors cover?
We operate from seven offices in Skipton, Barnoldswick, Silsden, Settle, Ilkley, Northallerton, and Harrogate, serving clients across Yorkshire and Lancashire.
What legal services do you offer for businesses?
We provide commercial contracts, property transactions, employment law, and dispute resolution services tailored to business needs.
Do you offer fixed-fee legal services?
Yes, our fixed-fee divorce service provides transparent pricing with no hidden costs for family law proceedings.
Are your conveyancing services nationally recognised?
Yes, we are featured in the Best Conveyancer Guide 2026 for exceptional service standards in residential and commercial property transactions.
How does WF Trust Corporation help with trusts?
Our dedicated trust corporation provides professional trustee services for establishing and managing trusts, ensuring legal compliance and asset protection.
