Business Details
46 Years
experience
Chartered Accountants Bridgwater
Established in 1980, M J Dodden is a Chartered Certified Accountancy firm with deep roots in Bridgwater, Somerset. Our practice has evolved through strategic partnerships, including the 2014 expansion enabling probate services, making us pioneers in Somerset's accountancy sector. We combine over four decades of local expertise with international experience serving clients across the UK and overseas territories like Hong Kong. Our client-centric approach focuses on three pillars: active listening to understand financial objectives, rigorous analysis of commercial realities, and tailored advisory services that prioritise long-term wealth optimisation. The firm maintains statutory compliance while delivering proactive tax planning strategies, business development support, and specialist probate administration.Our team of qualified partners, including probate-licensed practitioners, ensures technical excellence across all service areas. We invest in continuous professional development to maintain EAT credentials, evidenced by our MTD-compliant digital accounting solutions and fee protection insurance offerings. The relocation to expanded premises at 34 & 46 North Street reflects our commitment to providing accessible, modern accounting services while preserving our heritage as trusted financial advisors to local businesses and individuals.
Services
Accountancy Services
Tax Planning
Probate Administration
Business Advisory
Fee Protection Insurance
Will Writing
Payroll Services
VAT Compliance
Company Secretarial
Estate Planning
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined partner experience in accountancy and tax planning
- Our probate-licensed practitioners provide specialist estate administration services
- Chartered Certified status ensures adherence to highest professional standards
- Tailored fee protection insurance covers HMRC investigation costs
- Local business expertise combined with international client experience
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
- Probate Licence (ICAEW)
Services
Accountancy & Bookkeeping
Our accountancy services ensure accurate statutory compliance while providing actionable financial insights. We offer flexible support from complete bookkeeping to advisory services, tailored to business needs. Our MTD-compliant systems deliver timely management accounts for informed decision-making.
Tax Planning
Specialist tax planning minimises liabilities across income tax, corporation tax, and inheritance tax. We provide HMRC compliance support and strategic advice on tax-efficient business structures and personal asset protection.
Probate Services
Licensed probate practitioners handle estate administration with compassion and technical precision. Services include asset valuation, tax returns, and estate distribution, with transparent time-based fee structures.
Business Advisory
We support business growth through strategic planning, cashflow management, and financial forecasting. Our advisory services help clients navigate regulatory requirements and optimise operational performance.
Fee Protection Insurance
This specialist insurance covers professional fees during HMRC investigations. Policyholders gain direct access to our tax experts and CCH enquiry helpline support for dispute resolution.
People
Michael Dodden
Founder & Senior Partner
Qualified Chartered Accountant with 40+ years' experience, specialising in probate services and estate planning. Leads the firm's legal services division since 2014.
Ben Cleaveley
Partner
Licensed probate practitioner with expertise in estate administration. Joined partnership in 2016, focusing on expanding the firm's legal services capabilities.
Amy Cleaveley
Partner
Joined partnership in 2019, specialising in business advisory services. Brings contemporary perspective to strategic planning and digital accounting solutions.
Questions
What accountancy services do you offer for local businesses?
We provide complete accountancy services including bookkeeping, management accounts, and statutory compliance for Bridgwater-based businesses.
Can you assist with HMRC investigations?
Yes, our fee protection insurance covers professional fees during HMRC investigations, with direct access to specialist support helplines.
Do you offer probate services outside Somerset?
While based in Bridgwater, we handle probate cases nationwide and provide specialist advice to international clients.
How do you support business start-ups?
We advise on business structures, prepare financial plans, and handle registrations with HMRC and Companies House for new ventures.
What tax planning services are available?
Our tax planning covers personal and corporate liabilities, including inheritance tax mitigation and tax-efficient investment strategies.
Can you help with payroll administration?
Yes, our payroll bureau handles RTI submissions, auto-enrolment pensions, and payslip production for businesses of all sizes.
