Biography
I joined Irwin Mitchell from a boutique private client firm in Leeds, where for 15 years I advised principally large landed estate clients on Wills, tax, and succession planning.
Often my clients held assets in long running complex structures including companies and trusts. My advice involved analysing those structures and documents, and restructuring, often to simplify or pass assets on to the next generation, but while ensuring tax efficiency and protecting those assets for the long term.
I became involved in a number of matters involving cross border elements, such as non-domiciled beneficiaries or spouses, and foreign assets. I’ve specialised in these aspects over the last three years. This includes drafting Wills to ensure tax efficiency, and working with lawyers in other jurisdictions where necessary to achieve the best solution for the client.
What inspired you to get into law?
I'm a cellist and studied Music in Manchester for my degree. Towards the end of my studies, I started looking into intellectual property law in relation to a band I was in and signed up for law school originally intending to go in that direction. However, tax and equity and trusts stole my heart!
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
Being a trusted adviser and getting a unique insight into the personal and financial lives of my clients. On a personal level, I get to see close up what makes people happy, and what doesn’t.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
Everyone at Irwin Mitchell is super friendly and supportive - something I've appreciated from my very first day here.
What do you do away from the office?
I love music, singing, dancing (badly), cooking for friends and family, gardening and triathlon (slowly).
Testimonials
'Kat Wainman's in-depth analysis of my projects has greatly enhanced the effectiveness of the legal advice and direction that I needed.' - Legal 500, 2025
"Katherine Wainman is personable and knowledgeable, with an in-depth understanding of complex issues that arise throughout the process of administering an estate." "Katherine Wainman demonstrated a clear understanding of complex issues. She translated this clearly to the client while providing reassurance." "Kat Wainman is wise, helpful, imaginative and friendly. What more needs to be said?" Chambers & Partners High Net Worth 2024 (Associate To Watch)
"I recommend Katherine Wainman for technical trust matters and Thomas Wainman to clients who have business interests." - Legal 500, 2023
[Katherine] is my go-to person for trusts. She is excellent and I would have no problem referring clients to her - Chambers & Partners High Net Worth 2022 (Associate To Watch)
"Kat Wainman is technically excellent, willing to talk around subjects, outward looking, and I value her judgement. I would not hesitate to refer clients, friends or family to her... [She] is a strong addition to the team. Her enthusiasm for, and knowledge of, dealing with complex trust matters and cross-border work is excellent." - Legal 500, 2022
