Richard Horwood
Richard became Managing Partner of Longmores in April 2026, having been on the Management Committee since 2018. He joined Longmores as a newly qualified solicitor in 2001, being a part of the Private Client team advising individuals and families about their wills, trusts and inheritance tax planning arrangements. Richard became a partner in 2008 and headed the Private Client team from 2014 until 2026.
Richard believes that listening is one of the most important parts of his role, whether that is working with clients, or colleagues. This allows him to get to know the individual or family, to understand their motivation and to be able to provide the right help, in whatever form that may take.
He likes to keep things simple, acknowledge effort, and to encourage everyone to be the best that they can be. Richard is always keen to nurture the next generation, ensuring that they can fulfil their ambitions and go on to support the firm and clients in the future.
Richard enjoys supporting people, either with their personal development, or in the case of clients, at what can be very difficult point in their lives. He believes that the success of the firm is down to everyone working together and being clearly aligned on the best way forward.
Career
Richard studied Law (LLB) at the University of Liverpool, then completed the Post Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice at the University of Law, Chester.
Having completed his training contract at a local law firm in Bishop’s Stortford, Richard joined Longmores as a freshly qualified solicitor in 2001. He has been with us ever since.
Expertise
Richard is now focusing on the operational running of the firm with current projects including:
- Exploring a new practice management system for the firm
- Leading on the AI project and how it will be used ethically and efficiently within Longmores
- Taking an active role in the Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) committee to ensure that the approach is embedded into ways of working across the firm
During his time in Private Client, Richard specialised in inheritance tax planning, acting as a professional executor and trustee, Will and trust drafting, and Powers of Attorney
Community
Richard has acted as a trustee for a number of organisations, including:
- Parsonage Residents Association
- The Pro-Action Hertfordshire charity
- Age Concern New Apton Centre Bishop’s Stortford
- Hertford Museum
- Longmores Charitable Foundation
Recognition
Member of:
- The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP)
- The Law Society Private Client Section
- Hertfordshire Law Society Trusts & Probate Committee
Richard is also personally recognised by The Legal 500 as a Leading Partner for his Private Client expertise.
Professional feedback
“Richard Horwood has been exceptional in providing a tailor made solution for our generational property portfolio. The solution met a number of complex objectives, even though some of those objectives appeared to be conflicting.” The Legal 500 2026
“Richard Horwood always explains issues very lucidly and clearly and is a pleasure to work with. He is totally dependable, responds extremely promptly, and his recall of the detail of our affairs is exceptional. We value his involvement with our affairs very highly indeed.” The Legal 500 2026
“Richard Horwood’s local knowledge and his sensitivity in dealing with families is exemplary. His subject knowledge has always been faultless, but he is very easy to work with.” The Legal 500 2026
“Richard is very approachable, always willing to help and makes sure things are done in a timely manner. I would have no hesitations in recommending Richard and thoroughly enjoy working with him on mutual clients.” Managing Director, wealth management company
Personal interests
As well as tackling a few half marathons, Richard also enjoys a daily run to start the day with the right mindset. He is a fan of all sports, particularly watching live cricket. To relax, he is also happy with a good book.
