Sarah-Jane Macdonald

Provides clear, practical, advice on resolving complex estate or trust disputes

SJ is a Partner in our dispute resolution team, but who has extensive private client experience and who specialises in contentious trusts and estates.

She regularly works with trustees, executors and beneficiaries when issues arise to find practical resolutions and guide them through stressful situations.  SJ is also keen to promote alternative dispute resolution and has been involved in a number of executry mediations.

SJ is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a Specialist in Trusts Law, which expertise has seen her involved in a number of court actions for the removal or appointment of trustees, seeking additional powers, the variation of purposes and seeking directions.  She is also the author of “A Practical Guide to Legal Rights in Scotland” and regularly advises on all aspects of legal rights.

SJ is ranked as a Next Generation Partner in Legal 500 and is a committee member with the STEP Global Steering Interest Group on Contentious Trusts & Probate.  She is also the current Deputy Chair of STEP Scotland.

“Sarah-Jane Macdonald is exceptionally strong at the non-legal side of her work, as much as the legal, and that is vital in resolving complex disputes.” Legal 500 2026