Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom

Key definition

Succession definition

What does Succession mean? Succession describes how a deceased person’s estate is transmitted on death, by will (testate succession) or, if there is no valid will, under the statutory intestacy rules, and identifies who is entitled to inherit and how the estate is administered. The term is descriptive across UK and Irish practice, but the rules are set by legislation and case law in each jurisdiction. It typically involves personal representatives (executors or administrators) obtaining probate or confirmation, realising assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing to beneficiaries. In England & Wales and Northern Ireland, succession is principally governed by the Administration of Estates...

A practical guide to leadership succession in law firms: culture, demographics, recruitment, client management, governance structures, training, and emergency appointments

Published by a LexisNexis Practice Management expert

Practice notes

What is leadership Succession planning?

The smooth handover of leadership is a significant hurdle for any organisation, big or small. Managed poorly, it can seriously harm your business. Succession planning is the deliberate sourcing and nurturing of capable people to assume your firm’s principal leadership posts. It typically unfolds over years, during which individuals are coached, developed, and then advanced into progressively more challenging positions. The opportunities on offer energise people and broaden your reservoir of talent. Robust succession planning ensures you have a leader, or leaders, ready to move the organisation forward when you:

unexpectedly lose an essential member of the leadership team
require a shift in pace or approach
aim to concentrate on fresh markets
are looking to grow
confront retirement issues
must finalise a merger

Succession planning is essential for all businesses, particularly those reliant on one figurehead or a small cadre of leaders. With a pipeline of talent prepared, or by planning sufficiently far in advance, you can keep the business secure and well led. This limits upheaval, sustains progress, and helps you navigate change with confidence. It keeps the business in safe hands.

Why is succession planning difficult for law firms?

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Web page updated on 21/05/2026

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