60 Seconds with Lenore Rice

Friday 15 November 2024

Tell us about your role and your organisation.

I am a founding Director of Adamson Rice, a new Bangor based law firm. I specialise in Wills, Estate Administration, Trusts, Private Wealth Planning Estate and Tax Planning and Family Law.

My approach is always to be flexible in how I work with my clients; so I make sure the setting suits them whether this is in the office or in their home with a cup of tea, or virtually if they prefer. I work closely with clients and other professional advisors to provide holistic, joined-up advice tailored to meet the client's personal objectives.

I advise clients on planning for the inevitable by ensuring their Will and Enduring Power is in place and up to date, and their estate is properly structured to protect their assets and minimise tax. I have an excellent track record in advising on high value and complex estate administrations and act as professional executor and trustee. Additionally I advise on complex matrimonial settlements involving corporate structures, farming and family businesses, trusts and inherited wealth. I advise on protective financial settlements and both Pre and Post-Nuptial settlements.

Give us a brief overview of your career journey so far.

I began my legal career in 1991 as a Legal Executive and was a member of the Chartered Management Institute prior to embarking on my legal studies. In 2009, I qualified as a Solicitor. I gained extensive experience in an NI law firm where I developed and grew a leading high performing team which was Tier 2, Legal 500 ranked.

In January 2024 I decided to take the leap and depart that firm so I could embark on a new chapter. Together with my business partner and co-director; Natasha Adamson, we founded Adamson Rice, a female-founded, specialised law firm based in the heart of Bangor, providing legal services province wide.

We provide bespoke legal advice across the following areas;

Residential Conveyancing
Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning,
Private Wealth & Tax Planning
Divorce and Finance Law,
Specialised Care Planning for Elder and Vulnerable clients

We are committed to providing a personalised, reliable and professional service, with legal support tailored to clients' unique needs.

As a member of Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), the Law Society NI Elder Law Group, and the Association of Lifetime Lawyers; I am equipped with specialised training to ensure I deliver the highest quality advice to my clients.

I am proud to be recognised as a Legal 500 Leading Individual and Recommended Lawyer for 2023 and 2024 for providing a first-class personal service.

In 2023 I was delighted to be awarded Outstanding Mentor at the Women in Business NI Awards, following my mentoring with Women in Business (having completed the Advance Coach certificate), and my mentoring through the Law Society of NI and QUB Women in Law.

Describe yourself in three words.

Resilient, Committed, Humble

What is one skill that helps you most in your role?

Problem-solving is an invaluable skill for any solicitor. It enables me to analyse complex Issues, develop effective strategies, create tailored solutions to client’s unique needs and provide comprehensive advice.

This skill ensures that I can handle any legal challenge with confidence and efficiency.

What advice do you have for women in your sector?

My advice for women in the legal industry is to always believe in yourself and never underestimate your potential. Surround yourself with good role models who will encourage and support you. Seek out mentors, share experiences, and strive to grow into the best version of yourself.

Share your time and knowledge with others; we were all newly qualified once. Mentoring is a passion of mine, so don't hesitate to ask for help and be generous in offering support to others. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive and inclusive community.

Are there any exciting plans in the year ahead in your organisation that you can share with us?

Since our launch this summer, we have been riding a wave of excitement. We are thrilled to be hosting launch evenings soon and invite the key individuals who have supported us along the way, as well as clients and contacts. Our goal is to grow the business in accordance with our strategic plan and to begin recruiting new staff soon. Stay tuned to our social media channels for updates!

Who has been your biggest career inspiration and why?

I've always been passionate about sports, particularly athletics and netball. Lady Mary Peters has been my greatest career inspiration thanks to her unwavering determination and her ability to overcome numerous challenges. After her Olympic Gold win, Mary dedicated decades to promoting and encouraging young athletes in Northern Ireland. She personally raised funds to establish the province's first high-standard synthetic athletic track and later founded the Mary Peters Sports Trust.

Mary has been an unwavering ambassador for sports and for Northern Ireland itself. While my career path has led me to law, the inspiration I draw from her achievements, tenacity and generous giving of her time is entirely transferable.

If you had to pick your soundtrack song to get you through the working day, what would it be?

Keith Urban – Straight line

What's your favourite break-time snack?

Cappuccino & Kit Kat.

How can your fellow Women in Business members keep up to date with you and your organisation?