Tributes pour in for Valerie Brecher

In a statement, the firm’s chief executive Jacqui Rook revealed that Brecher, who had more than 35 years’ experience in both the commercial and residential property sectors, had died suddenly.

“Valerie touched so many lives throughout her incredible career,” said Rook. “Many of the firm’s clients viewed Valerie as not just a trusted adviser, but also a valued friend. At Brecher, we are taking the time to reflect. Valerie was incredibly proud of the firm she was key in founding and we will all miss her terribly.”

Harvey Soning, chairman of James Andrew International, said: “Last week the property industry lost a phenomenal legal mind with the passing of Valerie Brecher. Valerie was part of the Brecher dynasty, following her father David and uncle Henry into the legal profession.

“Valerie was inspired by her father to become a lawyer, which, in the early 1970s, was an unusual choice of career for a woman.

“Valerie, having graduated from City University, joined Berwin Leighton & Paisner, having vowed not to join her father’s practice. Valerie did eventually accede to the pressure from her father to join the family practice. In 1995, she joined her brother Andrew and Jeremy Abram to found Brecher Abram - now known as Brecher

“Valerie’s reputation as a negotiator was feared by many but admired by her clients, who comprise the great and the good of the real estate and legal industry. Valerie will be remembered for her warmth, charm, tenacity and fine mind.

“She will be missed sorely by her brother Andrew, her husband Graham and children and grandchildren, but also by the industry, who have witnessed another legend passing.”