Nigel Gibson-Birch

Wills, Trusts & Probate

Senior Associate Solicitor, Private Client Team

Contact Information

nigel.gibson-birch@machins.co.uk
01582 514361
Luton Office

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Testimonials

Mr Gibson-Birch was incredibly professional, informative and efficient to deal with. He was extremely personable which made probate and the sale of my parents house easier. I felt very confident knowing that all paperwork was dealt with correctly.
Review Solicitors - June 2025
From first meeting Mr Gibson-Birch he made me feel very comfortable , as making my will was not an easy experience, but his kindly professional manner put me at ease , as he carefully and fully explained everything to me. I now feel very ' at ease' knowing that I have made the right decisions for my family. I cannot thank him enough.
Review Solicitors - April 2025
Nigel's advice, understanding and calm way of handling everything was a godsend.
Nigel has been a great help in dealing with the work he engaged us to undertake and very professional and helpful.
Legal 500 2025
Nigel has an easy friendly and professional approach.
I would like to thank you on behalf of my husband, myself and our family for all your help. Our meetings were clear, helpful and friendly in all that we dealt with. My very best wishes to you and everyone who helped.
Nigel Gibson-Birch has acted for members of our family for many years and we regard him as our family solicitor. Thank you for your friendly and efficient service.
Very pleasant and accurate advice from all concerned from an old established Luton firm of solicitors.
Thank you for all you've done for me...you've been invaluable with all your help in all the different areas we've had difficulties.
I would like to say thank you for the professional service that you have conducted and the way you have communicated throughout the whole process...should I be asked to recommend a solicitor to anyone else in the future I would certainly recommend you.
I found the advice and help offered more than met my expectations.
Nigel provided first-rate advice and support though a challenging situation.
Our thanks also go to you for all you have done during the administration to maximise her most kind and generous gift. Your time and care are very much appreciated – particularly in ensuring the IHT saving – creating an important boost to the value of the legacy.
Sound logical advice that was easy to understand and seemed with our best interest. Good communication.
I just wanted to say a massive thank you for helping me out for the last seven months or so. My Dad and I have appreciated your hard work and easiness; you were always there to lend a hand if I was ever unsure about anything. Having you from the very start to now has meant that I haven't had to stress at all.
Thank you very much for your help in processing the sale. It was smooth and without any stress. I really appreciated your professionalism and expertise and being able to have complete trust in you.
You have been by far the best solicitor we've ever dealt with. Extremely professional, excellent communication, great advice and friendly.
I feel I cannot let this sad time go without a few words. You have been of great service to our family over many, many years…..We as a family would like to take this opportunity in saying a huge thank you for all the sound practical knowledgeable advice you have given us all. I hope the move to Machins brings you enjoyable new challenges and enables you to carry on helping others. Thank you once again for all you have done for us as a family.
It has been a pleasure working with you, thank you very much for all your help and assistance, it has been appreciated.
...you acted at all times with complete integrity and respect for my Aunt’s wishes. We are highly satisfied with all aspects of the service provided. Should the need arise, we would not hesitate to contact you again.
Excellent professional service from Nigel Gibson-Birch.
Service was highly professional, efficient and respectful. Clear knowledge and understanding of the various government agencies processes and quickly resolved issues as they arose. Excellent communication in explaining the process/law and any associated risks/benefits when decisions were needed. Quickly resolved issues as they arose.
Knowledge and expertise of a very high standard
He is a very nice person, sticks to the point, does not overwhelm one with a lot of legal jargon, and delivers on what he promises.
Very efficient and reasonable costs
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you. We very much appreciate that at times it was difficult and stressful but you managed the circumstances in a very professional manner You also explained everything that needed to be done I was also kept informed throughout the whole process. I would happily recommend your services to any who may need a solicitor.
I have known Mr.Gibson-Birch for many years. He has always been ready to help and advise and I have total faith in his judgement.
I just wanted to say an enormous thank you for sorting our Wills. We are very sorry that it was such a drawn out process and for the extra work that will have caused you, but we really are very happy that it finally has been sorted out …. It only took us 53 years … better late than never! It really is a huge relief to get this sorted out and we massively appreciated your time, advice and expertise in getting the Wills drawn up.
Thank you for acting for me and for your kindness and understanding during this traumatic time.
Thank you for your kind and calm handling of my situation. I am grateful for your advice and the sensitive way in which you have delivered it. I hope that I can call on your services again, should the need arise in the future.

About Nigel

Nigel joined Machins in October 2011 to further specialise and develop his private client practice. He is a member of the Law Society Private Client Section and has been a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) since 1996.

After graduating from Manchester University and the College of Law, Chester, Nigel joined Williams & Company in Luton. He qualified as a Solicitor in February 1984 and was a partner at the same firm from 1987 until 2011.

Nigel undertakes a number of responsibilities outside the office. He is a trustee of two Luton-based charities and is the legal clerk to the Board of Appeal to Table Tennis England.

Memberships

Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500 2026 Guide

Specialist practice areas

  • Wills & probate
  • Inheritance tax planning
  • Powers of attorney
  • Trust creation and management
  • Older client issues

 

Latest news by Nigel Gibson-Birch

Probate processing times

Probate processing time update

By Wills, Trusts & Probate

The probate process has seen significant delays, especially with the shift to online applications, which have become slower since the pandemic. While simple cases can be processed in about four weeks, more complex situations may take 16 weeks or longer. This blog explores the current state of probate processing times, factors causing delays, and practical advice on how to ensure your application moves forward smoothly. Learn how keeping a Will updated and seeking professional guidance can help minimize disruptions in this important legal process.

Inheritance Tax – Pensions and the 2024 Budget

By Wills, Trusts & Probate

The 2024 Budget introduces proposed changes to the Inheritance Tax (IHT) treatment of unused pension funds. Starting in April 2027, these funds will be included in the deceased’s estate for IHT calculations. This could significantly impact estate planning strategies, especially for those who have been using pensions to pass wealth tax-free.