“Ian Burman heads the ‘knowledgeable’ team at Laytons, which handles all aspects of personal tax, trusts and probate for a number of the region’s wealthiest business owners, enterpreneurs and celebrities.”*
”
Ian established the Laytons Private Client and Charities Team in 1989 and is a recognised leader in both fields.
A regular writer, lecturer and broadcaster, Ian was Chair of the London Central Branch of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners from 2007 to 2011 and was a Committee member for 20 years. Ian sat on STEP's Mental Capacity Working Party and the Deceased Lloyd's Names Working Party, acting for one of the defendants in Stone v Chataway and others, a case which revolutionised how the estates of deceased Lloyd's Names were administered.
Ian has contributed to numerous periodicals over the years and is a co-author of Tolley's Administration of Estates, the leading textbook in the field of estate administration. His particular specialisms are:
estate planning for high-net-worth individuals, particularly those not domiciled in the UK
probate and succession, including contentious probate and trust issues
charity law including trading and commercial activities and governance
Contact details
Email: ian.burman@laytons.com
Tel: +44 (0)20 7842 8000
DDI: +44 (0)20 7842 8006
LinkedIn
Qualifications
Qualified as a Solicitor in 1985
Expertise
News & Insights
The Private Wealth & Philanthropy team has been named “Private Client Team of the Year - London” at the 2026 Modern Law Private Client Awards.
Family businesses thrive across generations by innovating, adapting, and exploring new markets and opportunities. They make investment decisions for the long term, including maintaining a stable tax policy which works towards supporting the business’s ambitions and follows a clear plan.
Since 2017, Labour has consistently discussed their desire to scrap the value added tax (VAT) exemption for private school fees. It has been a topic included in manifestos, statements and during the General Election campaign. When asked, Sir Keir Starmer confirmed he wished to scrap the tax benefit “as soon as it can be done”. Now Labour is in office what does this mean.?
We are delighted to announce Simrun Garcha has been promoted to Partner, as Ian Burman retakes the reins as Head of Department.
We are delighted to announce that with effect from 1 April 2019, Lattey & Dawe has merged with Laytons LLP.
The introduction of civil partnerships from 5 December 2005 was hailed as a momentous occasion in the battle for equality of rights for same-sex couples. The later introduction on 13 March 2014 of same-sex marriage was believed by many to conclude that battle.
We understand that dealing with your family affairs requires more than just sound advice and technical excellence. We invest the time to get to know our clients’ circumstances, needs and preferences to deliver commercially informed and practical results for you.

