Family in East Midlands

Geldards LLP

Geldards LLP‘s broad family law offering spans mediation, private FDRs and neutral evaluations, family arbitration and collaborative law, among many others, and has been praised as ‘a force of a team’ who are ‘thorough, knowledgeable and approachable’. Experienced specialist family practitioner Fiona Apthorpe heads the team. Jane Cowley is notable for her strong matrimonial finance practice which sees her routinely act on matters with complex tax, pensions and trust issues. Claire Dean chiefly lends her expertise to high net worth financial remedy cases and is also highly regarded for her experience on complex and sensitive children cases. Natalie Haydon-Yeung represents HNWIs on financial matters involving property portfolios, business assets, trust assets and pensions, as well as undertaking complex children cases.

Practice head(s):

Fiona Apthorpe


Other key lawyers:

Claire Dean; Jane Cowley; Natalie Haydon-Yeung; Kate Keenan; Janine Hobday


Testimonials

‘Geldards is a very professional set-up but in my experience is also very supportive and understands the emotional toll of harrowing proceedings. They have a cohesive team approach, and I have always been able to contact someone from the team I am working with. Deadlines are well organised to be completed in advance. ’

‘Kate Keenan has undoubtedly been the stand-out individual I have worked with; supportive and professional at all times, coordinating efficiently between the children and finance proceedings. She is always well-prepared and switched on. Notwithstanding that, all the individuals I have worked with have been very capable and professional. ’

‘The team all put the client first and work well together. In terms of expertise and experience, they are a well-balanced outfit and the client is always placed with a partner or associate appropriate for the complexity of the case, the age, ethnicity etc of the client and the budgetary requirements of the client.’

‘Fiona Apthorpe is empathetic, a good and clear communicator, highly experienced and a first-class lawyer.’

‘Technically strong and experienced but practical in delivery and solution-focused.’

‘They are a force of a team who are rapidly growing. They are well respected, covering a wide range of family work, and are known for being thorough, knowledgeable and approachable. They also offer mediation, and private FDRs through Fiona Apthorpe.’

‘Fiona Apthorpe is the stand-out individual, who offers a no-nonsense, pragmatic and very technical service.’

‘Claire Dean is a truly exceptional private law children solicitor. With years of experience, a caring attitude towards every client and respect from all professionals who know her.’

Work highlights


John Hooper & Co

Specialist family law practice John Hooper & Co is based in Nottingham and comes recommended for fielding ‘a team of professionals who excel at what they do’. The group acts for both divorcing spouses and separating cohabitees, as well as handling children cases, financial disputes, non-molestation orders, and personal and financial protection. Founder John Hooper is a family law specialist, noted for his expertise when it comes to divorce and high-worth financial disputes between spouses and cohabitees as well as financial applications under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989. Yasmine Roff is a key name for financial remedy cases, including those involving intervenors, offshore trusts and corporate assets.

Practice head(s):

John Hooper


Other key lawyers:

Yasmine Roff


Testimonials

‘Yasmine Roff is exactly what you want in a matrimonial solicitor. She is very approachable and user-friendly but absolutely razor-sharp. One who really punches above her weight. ’

‘Their attention to detail is exemplary, every person in the team knows my name and can respond immediately to any request I have. All my dealings with the firm have been handled with professionalism, discretion and care.’

‘From the initial meeting with the John Hooper team my lawyer, Yasmine Roff has been superb. I can say wholeheartedly that she guided me through the divorce process with both skill and care, taking control of extremely difficult issues calmly and kindly.’

‘I felt heard and looked after and everyone had my interests at heart, something I needed when going through a tricky divorce. When I had my first meeting with John Hooper he listened to my story, was genuinely interested and wanted to help. I got the advice I needed, and the support along the way from receptionist to solicitor. I’m so grateful that I chose this firm to represent me.’

‘Highly professional, attentive but with a down-to-earth approach that means we can discuss our case as normal people before providing excellent legal representation.’

‘John Hooper is a small Family Law practice with a very personal touch. From the outset, the approach is to listen and support the client through well-considered and measured advice. It is not a corporate so the emphasis is on the client and client’s needs. The supporting staff are pleasant and efficient and the atmosphere is professional, yet welcoming and respectful. They come across as a team that works together and enjoys doing so.’

‘A small team of professionals who excel at what they do.’

‘Individually they have been supportive, kind and caring. Keeping me up to date, where needed explaining the processes simply and checking I understood.’

Work highlights


Nelsons Solicitors Limited

International child law, surrogacy, deprivation of liberty, unravelling trusts, and international disputes over children, assets and jurisdiction are the core pillars of Nelsons Solicitors Limited‘s family law practice. Known for an ‘unwavering dedication to her clients’, Emma Davies specialises in both divorce and complex financial issues, whilst Melanie Bridgen is a name to note for her work with complex children proceedings and domestic abuse issues. Gayle Rowley‘s strong practice includes both finance and children cases, often including complex international elements. Gareth Protheroe is the key contact for public child law issues, specialising in Children Act proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Emma Davies; Melanie Bridgen; Gayle Rowley; Gareth Protheroe


Other key lawyers:

Naomi Bond; Jeremy Ward


Testimonials

‘Naomi Bond knows my case very well, she listens, she is very supportive, caring but also professional.’

‘Nelsons Family Team provide a first class service to their clients; particularly in the field of financial remedies.’

‘Melanie Bridgen is a client’s dream. Her judgment and tactical nouse are second to none. Her case preparation is meticulous and her collaborative approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive advice in respect of all aspects of their case.’

‘The Leicester team undoubtedly places the client experience at the heart of its service, attracting a number of high-powered clients with similarly high expectations. Partners and associates are readily available for discussions with Counsel and are receptive to advice. Partners and associates appear to be assisted by an enthusiastic and capable team of support staff.’

‘Naomi Bond is a bright, diligent and personable junior with a bright future ahead of her. Briefs are well-prepared and arrive ahead of time, and clients come to me having received realistic and pragmatic advice. Naomi punches well above her weight.’

‘Nelsons Family team are established, well known and reputable, and have a good standing in the regional market. They offer assistance with a wide range of family matters and have a reputation for being approachable, pragmatic, and good to deal with.’

‘Emma Davies is the stand-out individual. She is someone that you would want on your side, offering solid advice but also with lots of empathy. She is passionate about getting the best for her clients.’

‘The team at Nelsons are always on hand to assist and help and to provide timely assistance.’

Work highlights


Shakespeare Martineau LLP

Shakespeare Martineau LLP retains its strong regional presence and handles a broad range of financial disputes arising from relationship breakdowns, as well as preparing nuptial agreements, and handling complex and sensitive child matters. The group is praised as ‘extremely responsive to clients and has very good technical knowledge’. The Leicester-based Katherine Marshall comes highly recommended as ‘very knowledgeable’ and both ‘robust and pragmatic at the same time’. Sonia Bachu has significant experience as a specialist divorce lawyer.

Practice head(s):

Katherine Marshall


Other key lawyers:

Sonia Bachu


Testimonials

‘The family team is an extremely strong one with an excellent support staff. I find that the preparation of cases and the advice which has been given to clients is always of the highest quality. The team responds quickly and comprehensively to enquiries both from me as Counsel and from lay clients.’

‘Simply unrivalled in the the East Midlands for its strength as a full-service firm.’

‘Katherine Marshall is a fantastic family lawyer to have on your side. Her advice is realistic from the outset. Sonia Bachu handles some really difficult cases with real sure-footedness.’

‘The team is extremely responsive to clients and has very good technical knowledge.’

‘Katherine Marshall is very knowledgeable, and manages to both be robust and pragmatic at the same time, which is great for client outcomes.’

‘SHMA have a really fantastic family team. They are passionate about what they do, they have all the legal knowledge but are also creative thinkers when it comes to solving problems. They are highly regarded within the profession and deserve to be recognised.’

‘Katherine Marshall is the star of the show. If you were going to instruct a lawyer then you should choose her. Dynamic, knowledgeable, pragmatic but also unflappable.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau’s family law practice, its uniqueness lies in the combination of expertise, empathy, and client-centered approach. Potential clients would be interested to know that the team doesn’t just handle legal matters; they genuinely care about guiding individuals through emotionally challenging times, providing both legal support and emotional reassurance.’

Sills & Betteridge LLP

Sills & Betteridge LLP‘s large-scale family law practice group has a strong influence in the region and is built around core teams that handle all aspects of matrimonial finance, emergency, care, children and mediation, respectively. The practice has garnered praise for being ‘hard-working, dynamic and very focused on best outcomes’ and is headed up by Helen Derry, whose diverse caseload frequently includes divorce, property issues, maintenance, nuptial agreements, co-habitation disputes and private children’s cases. Chrystal Theofanous is head of the emergency children and domestic abuse team, whilst Mo Hayes is a specialist for public law care proceedings, specifically child law cases, and spearheads the care team. Dominic Lee‘s practice emphasises divorce and financial cases as well as private children’s law disputes. Siobhan Thompson and Ailsa Tennant are other key contacts within the wider department.

Practice head(s):

Helen Derry


Other key lawyers:

Chrystal Theofanous; Mo Hayes; Jessica Firth-Brown; Nicholas Flatt; Siobhan Thompson; Ailsa Tennant; Dominic Lee; Sarah Rowe


Testimonials

‘They pay attention to detail and give the client the attention they require to their case. They are well-prepared and efficient as a team. They are good with technology and have a supportive environment from the top down in the team.’

‘Hard-working, dynamic and very focused on best outcomes. They really do take their client’s part and push as far as possible. Don’t take no for an answer! Forthright and powerful litigators.’

‘Sarah Rowe is an outstanding young lawyer. Always thinking creatively and fearless – challenges orthodox thinking and is more than happy to pursue cases through the appeal courts. If I needed a family solicitor to really fight my case (and do so effectively) I would instruct Sarah Rowe.’

‘The public law team – and in particular Chrystal Theofanous are exceptional. They work so hard in the best interests of their clients and have an amazing level of compassion too. They are always willing to properly challenge the local authority and the Guardian when appropriate to get the very best levels of engagement and results. ’

‘Excellent regional firm with friendly, caring ethos but gives practical and sensible advice. ’

‘Mo Hayes is a very experienced children’s lawyer who represents parents, grandparents and children. She is a conscientious, hard-working, and effective advocate. Sympathetic to vulnerable parents but realistic in the advice given. Chrystal Theofanous is a vigorous, enthusiastic champion of parents, especially young mothers and fathers. Very hard-working and down to earth.’

‘A strong team with an experienced Family Law base. Particularly strong in team training and development. Expertise on Armed Forces Pensions in particular which serves the local population well when advising divorcing clients given the number of RAF bases in the Lincolnshire area.’

‘Helen Derry – Strong leader of the team, very good on mediation cases, very knowledgeable.’

Work highlights


  • Acted for the respondent children in a reported domestic abuse case before the Court of Appeal involving the welfare of two children; the court in November 2023 dismissed a parent’s appeal of an application to revoke placement orders – an order made by the court authorizing a local authority to place a child for adoption.
  • Challenging children’s care case acting for the respondent child (via the children’s guardian) before the Court of Appeal.
  • Represented the father in a child abduction case at the Court of Appeal in which the appellant mother challenged the decision of a High Court judge to return a child to Australia, arguing that the lower court judge had erred.

Smith Partnership

Smith Partnership is adept across all aspects of public childcare law and family law issues. Highly experienced family law practitioner Muctar Johal is praised for his ‘outstanding court advocacy and grasp of detail’. Johal jointly leads the practice in conjunction with Ruth Jones. Clare Cuomo remains another important contact within the group as a child law specialist and is lauded by clients as ‘knowledgeable and organised’ as well as being ‘robust in the advice she provides’.

Practice head(s):

Muctar Johal; Ruth Jones


Other key lawyers:

Clare Cuomo


Testimonials

‘The client care provided by the team at Smith Partnership goes above and beyond. They pull together to support each other when preparing the most challenging cases. They provide a seamlessly excellent service.’

‘It was a privilege to be instructed by Muctar John and to lead him in a case. Muctar was such a pleasure to work with, because of his intellect, invaluable grasp of medical issues, impeccable preparation and most importantly, his empathetic management of his client. He is deservedly well-respected.’

‘My experience of Muctar Johal is that he knows everything there is to know about family law. He is my go to person for any complex issue and I recommend him for his outstanding court advocacy and grasp of detail.’

Work highlights


Banner Jones Solicitors

Banner Jones Solicitors‘ practice group is split across specialist family law and care proceedings teams. On the family side, Kelly Parks leads the team, which routinely undertakes a broad range of matters including divorce, financial remedy proceedings, children's cases, and nuptial agreements, among others. On the care side, care proceedings brought by local authorities, adoption and special guardianships and PLO meetings are the core focuses. Head of care Vince Beckworth received praise for being ‘extremely good with the client and can quickly put them at ease in stressful situations’.

Practice head(s):

Kelly Parks; Vince Beckworth


Other key lawyers:

Shetal Gudgeon; Jason Burnett


Testimonials

‘The team is able to identify the issues in a case very early and give proportionate and thorough advice. Their instructions are always diligently prepared and are on hand to answer questions.’

‘Shetal Gudgeon is very experienced, thorough and diligent. She is engaged in cases and ensures clients receive the best advice.’

‘The team provide a high quality of service comprising of expertise, availability and reliability. The team is efficient, knowledgeable and effective communicators. They represent clients with energy and enthusiasm.’

Work highlights


  • Successfully obtained a costs order and a penal notice against a wife that would not co-operate in financial remedy proceedings.
  • Acted on complex care proceedings in relation to the youngest child of the family initially arose due to concerns for neglect and chronic school absence.
  • Representing a large sibling group of 5 children who all had differing Care plans and expert evidence was needed on the sibling group and their attachments to one another. Significant and serious allegations were made of sexual abuse during the course of the proceedings and directly to the expert psychologist.

Flint Bishop Limited

Flint Bishop Limited‘s extensive work portfolio encompasses divorce, nuptial agreements, separation agreements, freezing orders, and children's cases, among many others. The group frequently acts on behalf of HNWIs and on matters involving international elements. Angela Davis leads the team, lending her expertise to all aspects of family law including arrangements for children and financial arrangements. Erica Wakeman specialises in resolving financial matters following divorce or separation.

Practice head(s):

Angela Davis


Other key lawyers:

Erica Wakeman


Testimonials

‘The private client family team at Flint Bishop is exceptional. Their lawyers are knowledgeable approachable and extremely capable of understanding client’s needs and problems and finding a quick solutions.’

‘Angela Davis is a diligent and thorough solicitor with a wealth of experience in both Children Act matters and matrimonial finance. She is always thoroughly prepared and has an eye for detail.’

‘Angela Davis is an extremely experienced family lawyer and will always provide sensible sound advice.’

‘The family practice at Flint Bishop excels in its capabilities at all levels of family law; our own experience of the team dealing with a very complicated residence order for our daughters was a perfect example of this. The depth of knowledge leaves nothing wanting and where the team feels a client’s needs would be better served by higher legal authority, they are quick to offer access to those authorities.’

‘We have had many dealings with Angela Davis. Angela was our support and guide over a period of nearly 3 years whilst we secured a long-standing and unequivocal child arrangements order for our daughters. Even though the process was long and arduous, Angela was there, every step of the way, never wavering in her belief that what we were doing was right. She was extremely approachable, empathetic, knowledgeable and always happy to suggest ways forward that would help our cause.’

Work highlights


  • Advising the husband in ongoing financial remedy proceedings.
  • Advising the husband on a maintenance variation matter.
  • Acting for the father in a complex Children Act Case involving a child with special needs.

Howes Percival LLP

Howes Percival LLP primarily advises on financial disputes and issues which arise out of divorce or separation, including Schedule 1 proceedings, TOLATA claims and negotiating deeds of separation. Leicester-based Justine Flack is known for advising HNWIs on complex financial arrangements, frequently involving businesses, agricultural assets and inherited wealth. Alishia Marrocco is another key contact within the practice group.

Practice head(s):

Justine Flack


Other key lawyers:

Alishia Marrocco


Testimonials

‘The team are hardworking, cohesive with a great wealth of knowledge.’

‘Alishia Marrocco is a brilliant lawyer with a fantastic bedside manner. A real star.’

‘The team has brilliant client care skills – the people I have worked with at the firm are genuinely lovely people who really care about their clients.’

‘Alishia Marrocco is empathetic, thorough, and technically very good.’

‘My experience of the firm has been entirely positive. Clients clearly get sound advice at an early stage and real thought goes into the strategy and presentation that can make or break a claim. My impression of the firm as a whole is that it is extremely user-friendly whilst maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.’

‘In Leicester, the person I have dealt with most frequently is Justine Flack who I think is excellent. She really knows her stuff and advises clients with great empathy and skill. I have also dealt with Alishia Marrocco in Northampton. She too is a first-rate lawyer who has good judgment and is not afraid to stick to her guns in the face of difficult opposing lawyers.’

‘Howes Percival is brilliant with private children cases.’

‘Many of the firm’s family clients come via their preexisting connections with the firm’s business or private client teams, and as a result, the firm has the ability to develop a very holistic view of the client’s needs.’

Work highlights


Rothera Bray

Rothera Bray has a strong reputation when it comes to financial settlements and private children issues, handling matters including, but not limited to, separation agreements, care proceedings, farming divorce, collaborative law, adoption, section 20 agreements, and prohibited steps orders. Paul Cobb and Ann-Marie Bowman jointly lead the department split across Nottingham and Derby. Joanne Millward is another member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Paul Cobb; Ann-Marie Bowman


Other key lawyers:

Joanne Millward


Testimonials

‘They did an outstanding job and worked hard to ensure everything was done properly.’

‘The team is very professional and understands the individual needs. Excellent in communication and keeping me updated.’

‘It’s a pleasure to work with this team who are attentive and knowledgeable.’

Work highlights


Wilkin Chapman Rollits

With an ‘excellent family team covering both private financial and children matters‘, Wilkin Chapman Rollits excels in complex financial work, including high-value divorces, farming divorces and MOD divorce cases. Key individuals include Lisa Boileau, who specialises in divorces involving substantial farming assets; and Julie Bailey, who is experienced in divorces involving military personnel.

Other key lawyers:

Lisa Boileau; Julie Bailey; Stacey Heeley; Lucy Reding


Testimonials

‘Excellent family team covering both private financial and children matters. Breadth of knowledge and diversity in the team. Very user-friendly and excellent client care.’

‘Their client care and attention to detail are exemplary, nothing is too much trouble. They always give pragmatic advice and prepare court applications with considerable attention to detail. Stacey Heeley is a standout for this.’

‘Lisa Boileux and Lucy Reding are exceptional divorce specialists. ’

Chattertons

Chattertons handles all aspects of private family law, including divorces and the related financial settlements, nuptial agreements, cohabitation disputes, arrangements for children including applications to the court, and injunctive procedures. Liz Graham leads the team, while Neil Denny is a key contact for financial remedy work.

Practice head(s):

Liz Graham


Other key lawyers:

Neil Denny


Testimonials

‘The team has provided me with an outstanding service that is efficient, professional and understanding.’

‘Liz Graham was recommended to me and I highly recommend her expertise to others.’

‘Neil Denny – I have known Neil for many years and he is, pound for pound, one of the brightest, kindest and genuine lawyers I know. He cares very much for his clients and is able to give brilliant advice in a clear and easy-to-digest manner.’

DFA Law

The practice at DFA Law has ‘a very strong ethical and personal approach to clients, backed up with extensive knowledge of all aspects of divorce law and its complexities‘. The group’s broad expertise encompasses complex financial settlements, nuptial agreements, farming cases, children matters and cohabitee disputes. Rachel Adams leads the team and attracts praise as ‘a phenomenal legal adviser‘, who is ‘clear and direct with her advice from the outset‘.

Practice head(s):

Rachel Adams


Other key lawyers:

Emma Kirkland


Testimonials

‘Rachel Adams and her family law team have a very strong ethical and personal approach to clients, backed up with extensive knowledge of all aspects of divorce law and its complexities. Their communication with their clients is exceptional, in both proactive and reactive situations and their personal approach to individual issues significantly helps in what is a very emotional process.’

‘Rachel Adams has been a phenomenal legal adviser. She has been clear and direct with her advice from the outset while delivering with high integrity and compassion. At all times during our engagement, she has put me first as a person, rather than just a case.’

‘I was fortunate that Emma Kirkland was my solicitor. She was approachable and always contactable. She was outstanding throughout the process. She recognised my initial anxieties, and supported me through the difficult steps of the process.’

Excello Law

Excello Law handles a range of matters on behalf of high-net-worth individuals including divorces and separations, including the dissolution of civil partnerships, financial settlements, cohabitation agreements, children cases, and pre and post-nuptial agreements. The practice is also noted for its experience in mediation and collaborative law processes. Practice head Swati Somaiya handles all aspects of family law, and is singled out by clients as ‘an excellent solicitor, willing to go the extra mile in everything she does‘.

Practice head(s):

Swati Somaiya


Testimonials

‘Swati Somaiya is an exceptionally good family lawyer. Her advice is always timely, easy to understand and practical. She is a highly knowledgeable and technically brilliant lawyer and always fights for the best outcome for her clients.’

‘Swati Somaiya is an excellent solicitor, willing to go the extra mile in everything she does. She is extremely knowledgeable in her field which provided me with confidence and reassurance.’

‘Excello Law are very experienced and extremely capable firm.’

‘I have to highlight the work of Swati Somaiya. She is an excellent lawyer. Hardworking and devoted to meeting her client’s needs. She is a brilliant team player and provides all the support required.’

‘Excello Law’s Family Law Department is unique in its comprehensive approach to assisting clients through the traumatic experience of family break-up. What sets them apart is their commitment to providing practical and honest advice, ensuring that clients’ interests are protected and the best possible solutions are achieved for both adults and children involved.’

‘Swati Somaiya is truly exceptional in her field, and her standout qualities are evident in both her approach to cases and her interactions with clients. What truly distinguishes Swati from her competitors is her unwavering commitment to providing professional, pragmatic, and personable service in every aspect of family law.’

‘One of the key reasons I hold Swati Somaiya in such high regard is her remarkable ability to navigate clients through what can often be a tumultuous and emotionally charged period of their lives. Her understanding of the emotional toll of separation is invaluable, and she tailors her services to meet the unique needs of each client with compassion and empathy.’

Freeths LLP

Freeths LLP has a robust track record for handling complex and high-value financial and children disputes on behalf of a range of clients including business owners and entrepreneurs, and their spouses. Practice head Nikki Aston chiefly handles cases which involve complex financial business and trust structures; and Stephanie Clifton, who ‘works tirelessly for the client‘, specialises in divorce and financial remedy matters, and also handles complex private children's law cases.

Practice head(s):

Nikki Aston


Other key lawyers:

Stephanie Clifton


Testimonials

‘Freeths is highly regarded locally as a small but strong family law team.’

‘Nikki Aston is a star. Well regarded and has a bright future ahead of her. She is tenacious but pragmatic.’

‘Nikki Aston and Stephanie Clifton are approachable, reasonable and knowledgeable solicitors who go above and beyond for their clients.’

‘Freeths have a very strong team in Nottingham headed by the hugely energetic and committed Nikki Aston. She has built a team around her and as a result, is able to be proactive and forward-thinking in promoting her client’s best interests.’

‘Nikki Aston has amazing energy and cares passionately about her clients and getting them the best outcomes. Her colleague Stephanie Clifton is a hugely competent and able assistant, who gets to the heart of an issue and works tirelessly for the client.’

‘Nikki Aston has a burgeoning practice in the East Midlands and is based in Nottingham. Nikki assists clients across a wide range of family matters from high-net-worth divorces to complex Children Act proceedings.’

‘Nikki is firm, calm and collected. She always makes me feel she is available and works very efficiently. I value her directness where necessary, but also gentle guidance and support where necessary.’

‘Nikki Aston is a great solicitor. Pragmatic, professional, and conscientious in everything she does. Clients love her for good reason. Never gives anything less than the best for her clients.’

Roythornes Solicitors

Roythornes Solicitors specialises in financial cases involving complex issues ranging from pension assets, company and partnership assets, and trusts, as well as complex and sensitive children matters. The group also excels in mandates with cross-border elements and handles cases involving farming assets. The ‘superbNick Ingrey leads the team, which also includes Caroline Elliott, who acts for a mixture of local, national and international clients, and John Boon, who focuses on family remedy cases.

Practice head(s):

Nick Ingrey


Other key lawyers:

Caroline Elliott; John Boon


Testimonials

‘Their attitude to their clients is amazing.’

‘The understanding of the case and response is very impressive. Nick Ingrey and his team had a grip on the situation at all times.’

‘The whole team are professional, helpful and polite.’

Stowe Family Law LLP

Stowe Family Law LLP is adept across all aspects of private family law including divorces, separations, Children Act matters, nuptial agreements, fertility issues and TOLATA matters. The practice is also regularly active in cases involving domestic, emotional and psychological abuse, and provides advice to same-sex and cohabiting couples. Newly promoted managing partner Beth Sheridan heads up the practice in Nottingham and is a key name for financial remedies and private law children matters, while Holly Lamb leads the international team. Sarah Townsend joined the group in September 2023 and is active in financial remedy cases.

Practice head(s):

Beth Sheridan


Other key lawyers:

Holly Lamb; Sarah Townsend


Testimonials

‘The team have strength in depth with superb solicitors across all levels of experience.’

‘Beth Sheridan is an excellent solicitor. Her judgment and tactical nous are second to none. Her case preparation is meticulous and her collaborative approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive advice in respect of all aspects of their case.’

‘Stowe Family Law often seem to go the extra mile for their clients.’

‘Holly Lamb is certainly a stand-out partner, as she is extremely experienced, knowledgeable, efficient and capable. Clients feel very assured that they are in the best hands when Holly is handling their case.’

‘Beth Sheridan’s outstanding qualities and contributions to Stowe’s family team in the East Midlands sets her apart as a remarkable individual in the field of family law. Her extensive experience spanning over 25 years, coupled with her dedication and expertise in handling a wide range of family law matters, make her an invaluable asset to Stowe.’

‘The practice stands out in the quality of its work and commitment to clients.’

‘The team is responsive, knowledgeable and thorough. They manage client expectations well.’

‘Beth Sheridan is excellent and I have complete faith in my instructions from her.’

Wilson Browne Solicitors

Wilson Browne Solicitors covers the full spectrum of family law work, with expertise across divorces, financial remedy issues, cohabitation agreements, pre and post-nuptial agreements, TOLATA claims, and children matters. Heather Davies heads up the practice group and advises on all aspects of relationship breakdowns, while Ed Rawlins has expertise in matters involving land and complex business assets.

Practice head(s):

Heather Davies


Other key lawyers:

Ed Rawlins


Testimonials

‘My solicitor has always treated me empathetically and with consideration for my circumstances and situation.’

‘Ed Rawlins was fantastic, he explained every eventuality at whatever detail and level I needed. Nothing was too much trouble for him and he was extremely patient no matter how emotional the situation.’

‘Heather Davies is extremely knowledgeable and also empathetic. She is always able to offer solutions to resolve issues and is committed to helping until a satisfactory conclusion is reached.’

HCR Hewitsons

HCR Hewitsons is recognised for its knowledge of high-value financial remedy cases, often handling claims with unusual or complex elements. The group also focuses on complex children cases, including cases involving allegations of parental alienation and abuse, as well as surrogacy, donor and fertility law issues. Private family law specialist Sally Robinson leads the team, and is ‘well-grounded and apparently unflappable‘.

Practice head(s):

Sally Robinson


Testimonials

‘From the very first communication to the last, HCR gave me full confidence I had chosen wisely who was going to represent me.’

‘Sally Robinson is such a pleasure to work with. She is well-grounded and apparently unflappable. Her clients are always well prepared in advance for what is to come – she manages clients’ expectations exceptionally well.’

‘HCR Northampton has a family law practice that is up there with the large city firms. The family team are meticulous, strategic and very approachable. From what I have seen, their client care is second to none, and the relationship and trust they have built with their clients puts their clients at ease during a difficult time.’

‘Sally Harrison is an excellent lawyer with great client care and an astute tactical instinct.’

Josiah Hincks Solicitors

Josiah Hincks Solicitors regards complex divorce cases, child arrangement matters, pre and post-nuptial agreements, and TOLATA cases as the core pillars of its family law practice. Jonathan Foster heads up the team from the firm’s Syston office and excels across the full spectrum of family work. Clients also praise Radmila Balac as ‘a good communicator who understands people‘.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Foster


Other key lawyers:

Radmila Balac


Testimonials

‘The solicitor at Josiah Hincks, Radmila Balac, was amazingly good and I thanked my lucky stars I had found her. She was professional, and practical and took the time and care to guide me through the divorce process, helping me to make sensible and reasonable decisions.’

‘Radmila Balac is a very experienced family solicitor and she is also a good communicator who understands people. Radmila, whilst retaining a professional approach, showed an understanding of the difficulty that a person may experience and approached reaching a resolution in a way that was reasonable, civil and fair. This impressed me.’

‘Radmila was amazingly good and I thanked my lucky stars I had found her. She was professional, and practical and took the time and care to guide me through the divorce process, helping me to make sensible and reasonable decisions.’