Solicitor Timothy Costello, an education specialist and pioneer in giving legal assistance to people affected by HIV and AIDS, has died at the age of 68.

Tim, as he was known to colleagues,  worked at Clifford Chance, Boodle Hatfield, Wedlake Saint, where he took a central role in developing the firm’s education department, and Eversheds. 

He was also a long-serving volunteer and company secretary at the charity Terrence Higgins Trust where he gave legal advice to people affected by HIV and AIDS. ’He helped hundreds of people with AIDS and HIV, personally and legally on such issues such as advance directives, wills, insurance disputes, employment and discrimination issues,’ a former colleague, Dai Harris, recalled. ’As company secretary he was a much respected adviser to the board of directors during a critical and intense time when AIDS was a political and frightening issue. He helped the organisation stay professional and protected.’

Later in his legal career, Costello moved to international firm Eversheds where he impressed with his detailed expertise on PFI projects.  ’Tim was popular because of the calm, skilled advice and help that he gave clients and colleagues alike,’ Harris said. 

A funeral and service of remembrance will be held at Earsham Hall, NR35 2AN near Bungay in Norfolk on Saturday 17 January at 12.15 with a burial later at Ditchingham Parish Cemetery. 

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