Macfarlanes announces appointment of Partner in Tax Disputes

Macfarlanes has announced that Tax Disputes Partner Kate Ison will join the firm in London on the 16 February 2026.

Kate specialises in advising clients on the full lifecycle of complex, sensitive and high-value tax disputes. She acts across a wide range of industries, covering both direct and indirect taxes as well as excise duties. Her expertise spans risk management and compliance, civil enquiries and criminal investigations by HM Revenue and Customs. She regularly assists clients in responding to information requests and resolving disputes through negotiation or litigation, and she regularly represents clients before the UK Courts. Kate also advises in relation to complex, international tax investigations and disputes. Kate is ranked as a Leading Individual for tax litigation and investigations by The Legal 500 UK 2025 and is recognised in Chambers UK 2025 for Tax: Contentious.

Our dedicated Tax Disputes team, with partners Gideon Sanitt and Sarah Ling, advises on the full range of matters - from risk reviews and informal HMRC enquiries to formal investigations, settlement negotiations and complex litigation. The team works alongside our wider market leading tax advisory practice to support our private capital and private wealth clients. 

Commenting on the appointment, Senior Partner Sebastian Prichard Jones said: “Kate’s arrival strengthens our busy Tax Disputes team. Her outstanding track record in complex, high-value tax investigations and litigation makes her an exceptional addition. Kate’s deep experience will be invaluable to our clients.”

Kate Ison added: “Macfarlanes’ Tax Disputes practice is renowned for its strategic insight and results-driven culture, working alongside its leading tax practice. I am looking forward to joining Gideon, Sarah and the wider team to build on the firm’s strengths in this area.”