Leading Partners

Next Generation Partners

Firms To Watch: Family

Expatriate Law, headed up by Alexandra Tribe, focuses exclusively on international family law, often handling complex jurisdiction issues and with offices in the UAE and Singapore.
Katie Spooner leads Family Law in the City Ltd, which is noted for its ‘good advice and a non-confrontational approach‘.
Level gained Neil McNab from Kepler Wolf Limited in November 2023, joining Sofia Dionissiou-Moussaoui as co-head of the practice, which focuses on high-net-worth ancillary relief matters, both in the UK and worldwide.
Melius Family Law was established in April 2023 by Archie Best, Joseph Fennelly and Alexandra Blair, all formerly of Hughes Fowler Carruthers. The firm's focus is on complex financial and children matters, acting for high and ultra-high-net-worth clients.
Firm co-founder Julie Taylor established the MEUM Group Ltd family practice in April 2023, specialising in cross-jurisdictional issues arising from separations.

Firms in the Spotlight Family

Lawlex Solicitors

Lawlex Solicitors logo

Lawlex Solicitors may be A small yet highly focused firm, but its size is its strength. As a focused firm, it thrives on offering highly personalised and strategic legal solutions, particularly in the realm of international arbitration and cross-border disputes amongst other areas. Led by Ruslan Ughrelidze, a Solicitor Advocate with Higher Rights of Audience …

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Hughes Fowler Carruthers

Hughes Fowler Carruthers logo

Hughes Fowler Carruthers was established in July 2001. The firm is led by Frances Hughes, who has been consistently rated as a leading individual in this publication over many years. All partners are internationally acclaimed for the exceptional standard of their work. The other partners are Pauline Fowler, Alex Carruthers, Mark Harper, Renato Labi, Caroline …

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Family in London

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

According to clients, ‘it is not possible to have a better team' than the group at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP, which regularly handles both complex international work and ultra-high-value domestic work. The practice's international reach is bolstered by its team members' skills, with James Freeman a go-to for Anglo-French cases, James Riby for Anglo-Italian, and Miranda Fisher also a specialist in this area. Team head William Longrigg is sought after for high-value divorce and prenuptial matters, often acting for high-profile clients; family businesses and their treatment on separation are a particular focus for Sarah Higgins. Cases involving cryptocurrency assets are also an area of expertise for the team, with Sarah Jane Boon a key name here. Sarah Anticoni heads up the firm’s family mediation offering, with ‘star of the futureJamie Kennaugh also a mediator. Joshua Green is recommended as ‘wise beyond his years’, regularly acting for clients in the sports industry and handling cases involving publicity and media law issues, while Emily Borrowdale often advises start-up entrepreneurs.

Practice head(s):

William Longrigg


Other key lawyers:

Miranda Fisher; Sarah Higgins; Sarah Jane Boon; Jamie Kennaugh; Emily Borrowdale; Joshua Green; James Riby; Charlotte Posnansky; Erica Shelton; David Carver; James Freeman; Sarah Anticoni


Testimonials

‘It is not possible to have a better team than that offered by the Charles Russell Speechlys family team. All of the partners are stellar and the associates, many of whom are future partners in the making, are fearsomely bright. Whether for finance and/or children, I would recommend and do recommend CRS to anyone contemplating family or private litigation.’

‘A great stable with some real talent – not flash or brash but quietly effective. They get the job done and done well. The overall impression is one of focusing on the best interests of the client overall, and where possible taking a collaborative approach to get there.’

‘Jamie Kennaugh is empathetic, warm and supportive to her clients. A star of the future.’

‘William Longrigg is charm personified, affable and approachable, with a twinkle in his eye, but a steel in his negotiations not to be ignored.’

‘Miranda Fisher is excellent. She is extremely responsive and provides the highest quality advice to very demanding clients. Her client manner is superb and her attention to detail very impressive. Undoubtedly one of the best family/divorce lawyers in the country.’

‘Sarah Jane Boon is a strategic, fearless litigator, good judgment, very analytical.’

‘Josh Green is wise beyond his years, excellent with clients who adore him, good judgment.’

‘James Freeman is robust, hugely intelligent, pragmatic, thoughtful. A really impressive lawyer and mediator. Wearing his mediator hat he adopts an unusually interactive, inquisitorial style that gets results’

Dawson Cornwell LLP

‘Probably the best specialist family law team in London‘, Dawson Cornwell LLP has ‘an exceptional breadth of talent and skills’, handling international matters, high-value financial disputes, and public children law issues. Russell Bywater heads up the matrimonial department, with particular expertise in international trust matters, while Carolina Marín Pedreño leverages her ‘huge depth of expertise and experience’ to lead the children department. The ‘impossibly cleverSimon Bruce combines high-value international finance work with child custody expertise and experience as a mediator, while Sarah Jane Lenihan is sought after for private law children matters, including those which involve safeguarding concerns. Jessica Reid, also a trained mediator, regularly handles financial cases involving nondisclosure of assets, which is also an area of strength for former commercial litigator Charlotte Conner. International enforcement matters are often handled by Anna Shadbolt, and international children matters are an area of specialism for Forum Shah. Charlotte Image-Flower deals with a range of sensitive public children matters, particularly care proceedings; for adoption, surrogacy and fertility matters, Hilka Hollmann is the go-to name.

Practice head(s):

Russell Bywater; Carolina Marín Pedreño


Other key lawyers:

Simon Bruce; Jessica Reid; Sarah Jane Lenihan; Hilka Hollmann; Anna Shadbolt; Charlotte Image-Flower; Sulema Jahangir; Floriane Laruelle; Charlotte Conner; Kate Brett; Aysel Akhundova; Forum Shah


Testimonials

‘Simon Bruce is impossibly clever and hard working. He has a powerful claim to being the best practitioner in Family Law.’

‘Dawson Cornwell are extremely well regarded, particularly in international work, in both the children and financial spheres. They are a well run team and have expertise at all levels suitable for the whole range of cases.’

‘Sarah Jane Lenihan is a pleasure to work with. She is committed to achieving the best outcome for her clients either by negotiation or determination. She is great with clients and gives realistic advice.’

‘Forum Shah is becoming a true legend in her field. Entirely unflappable, she has the nerves of steel that are a prerequisite in abduction cases.’

‘Probably the best specialist family law team in London with an exceptional breadth of talent and skills.’

‘Carolina Marín Pedreño has a huge depth of expertise and experience in both international and domestic proceedings involving children. She leads her very able team and is widely respected by them.’

‘Charlotte Image-Flower is a public law care specialist of high ability and experience, particularly, in my own knowledge of her, in international public law cases. She is accurate, incisive and forensic in her approach, and is a force to be reckoned with.’

‘A tremendous family law firm with a great range of very impressive individuals (at partner and associate level), with a super team ethic and a real client-focused approach, which is at one and the same time friendly, understanding and highly effective. A firm fully deserving of its tier 1 ranking.’

Work highlights


  • Acted for the mother in the conjoined appeal with Re D (A Child) [2023] EWCA Civ 1047. Using Child Objections as her defence the mother succeeded in her defence to the return application made by the father.
  • Successfully acted pro bono for the appellant in Re P – Forced Marriage Protection Orders, a landmark decision regarding the extra-territorial jurisdiction of the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007 (FMPA).

Family Law in Partnership Ltd

‘A fabulous boutique family law practice with a broad range of expertise‘, Family Law in Partnership Ltd combines legal advice with mediation services and access to counselling for its clients throughout their divorce, financial remedy, and children matters. Within the team, David Allison ‘isn’t afraid to fight‘ difficult matrimonial finance claims, and Elizabeth Hicks is a go-to for both financial and children matters which have cross-jurisdictional aspects, while Pamela Collis’ particular focus is on surrogacy and international relocation cases, which is also an area of strength for Mariko Wilson. As ‘one of the doyens in the field of family law’, James Pirrie is noted for his expertise regarding child support, and complex children matters are also an area of particular experience for Daniel Coombes. Bradley Williams ‘is a true warrior of family law litigation’, often working internationally. Elizabeth Fletcher’s practice emphasises non-court dispute resolution options promoted by the firm, while Helen Greenfield specialises in assisting clients who have been affected by domestic abuse or coercive control. Charlotte Symes and Grace Lawrence regularly handle nuptial agreements. Selena Arbe Barnes, Nicole Phillips and Kara Swift are also recommended.

Other key lawyers:

David Allison; James Pirrie; Pamela Collis; Daniel Coombes; Bradley Williams; Elizabeth Fletcher; Hannah Greene; Helen Greenfield; Charlotte Symes; Mariko Wilson; Selena Arbe Barnes; Nicole Phillips; Kara Swift; Elizabeth Hicks; Grace Lawrence; Rebecca Alexander


Testimonials

‘The team at FLiP are fantastic. They communicate and collaborate brilliantly so you always feel that you’re in safe hands. No matter who you deal with, you get a personable and professional service.’

‘Bradley Williams is a true warrior of family law litigation. He has seen it all and done it all.’

‘Charlotte Symes is a superb family lawyer – she has outstanding judgement, works very hard and has a steely determination. Clients love her – and for good reason.’

‘Grace Lawrence is a fabulous associate – arguably the best family law associate of her generation.’

‘A fabulous boutique family law practice with a broad range of expertise. The partners are dynamic and flexible and deliver an outstanding service.’

‘Unique. There’s no other firm like FLiP. They do everything differently, their way. They’re brilliant. Forward thinking, at the cutting edge of alternative family disputes, yet also leading players in high-net-worth cases.’

‘David Allison is simply fantastic. He is so calm and measured. He gets the best out of opponents and he isn’t afraid to fight difficult cases.’

‘James Pirrie is one of the doyens in the field of family law. He manages to tread a line between being kind, but also relentlessly pursuing the best deal for his clients. There isn’t really anyone like him.’

Farrer & Co

Retaining an ‘an old world feel’ while approaching cases in ‘an entirely modern way’, Farrer & Co regularly handles international matters for a range of high and ultra-high-net-worth clients. Department head William Massey is noted for his expertise regarding complex financial situations including trusts, tax issues, and multiple jurisdictions. Claire Gordon has particular experience in cases across Hong Kong, New York and Switzerland; international matters are also an area of expertise for Edward Floyd. Combining ‘fantastic strategic vision and a real mastery of the law‘, Caroline Holley is sought after by clients in the entertainment industry. The team’s financial remedy expertise is combined with strength in children matters: Sarah Hutchinson regularly works at this intersection, including in Hague Convention proceedings, along with Amy Radnor and Flora Harragin. Frederick Tatham, ‘a ferociously good lawyer who will go very far’, has notable experience in Hong Kong, while John Davies ‘is technical with a strong international focus’. Alexander Woolley is recommended as ‘diligent, technical and thoughtful‘.

Practice head(s):

William Massey


Other key lawyers:

Claire Gordon; Caroline Holley; Sarah Hutchinson; Edward Floyd; Amy Radnor; Flora Harragin; John Davies; Alexander Woolley; Frederick Tatham; Rebecca Heyworth


Testimonials

‘Great combination of professionalism, outstanding technical ability, commercial acumen, great judgement as well as empathy and a human dimension – outstanding all round. Farrer are a cut above the rest!’

‘Ed Floyd has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the law and pays forensic attention to detail making him a top choice for big cases where he will know the papers inside out.’

‘Amy Radnor is super smart, is wonderful with clients proving kind but firm, and has good judgment.’

‘Caroline Holley is a simply superb lawyer. She has fantastic strategic vision and a real mastery of the law. She is formidable and has an incredible drive. She marshals her cases brilliantly, with an excellent team beneath her. She cares deeply about her clients, both in terms of the outcome for them and their welfare. This really shines through in her interactions with them and they respond sensationally well to it.’

‘Freddie Tatham is one of my favourite lawyers and all round people. He is a ferociously good lawyer who will go very far. He is a shrewd operator who carefully navigates his client’s case to maximise the outcome for them. He achieves really good results and does so with panache. Client’s adore him and his manner which is both professional and charming.’

‘John Davies is a brilliant partner. He is technical with a strong international focus. He pairs his knowledge with a very well honed bedside manner. He is incredibly patient and kind with clients and you can see, quickly, that they value him enormously.’

‘Alex Woolley is a rising star. He is quickly ascending towards being a partner. He is very talented and will go very, very far. He is both diligent, technical and thoughtful which is a powerful combination. Clients love him because they can sense how invested he is in their case.’

‘Farrers are a fabulous family law team. They are the leading firm in London. They have an old world feel but they approach cases in an entirely modern way: they are the very best.’

Work highlights


  • Acted in the first reported case of a second financial remedies final order being set aside on the basis of a second fraudulent non-disclosure.

Hughes Fowler Carruthers

Clients ‘greatly appreciate’ the ‘user friendly’ style at boutique firm Hughes Fowler Carruthers, which offers the full range of domestic and international finance and children expertise. Frances Hughes heads up the practice, specialising in complex divorce cases which involve high-value assets and multiple jurisdictions. Alex Carruthers ‘is a powerhouse of a lawyer’, sought after for complex legal issues involved in matrimonial finance cases, while Pauline Fowler is recommended for her ability to find ‘creative solutions that work for real families‘. For pre-nuptial and pre-civil partnership agreements, Mark Harper is a go-to, and Renato Labi ‘negotiates as well as he litigates‘ in high-stakes divorce matters. ‘A brilliant lawyer and a clever tactician‘, Caroline Park handles long-running and often cross-border cases; such international matters are also an area of expertise for Kate Brett. The team’s children practice handles international relocation, abduction, adoption and surrogacy matters, along with sensitive issues of domestic abuse and coercive control.

Practice head(s):

Frances Hughes


Other key lawyers:

Alex Carruthers; Pauline Fowler; Mark Harper; Renato Labi; Caroline Park; Kate Brett


Testimonials

‘They care. They are intelligent, mindful, insightful and very respectful of their clients needs and wishes, whilst professionally steering the client through the necessary processes. Informed decision making at all times.’

‘Renato Labi is one of the very best divorce solicitors in London. He has been involved in some of the very biggest cases which have come before the courts over the last few years. He handles them amazingly. I have seem him out-maneuver his opponents and marveled at his tactics. He is incredibly intelligent and fights as hard as he possibly can for his clients, but is always charm personified to his opponents. He negotiates as well as he litigates.’

‘Caroline Park is a stand out for me. A brilliant lawyer and a clever tactician. Never fails to achieve an outstanding result whether by negotiation or in a hearing. My favourite person to work with. Accessible and completely on top of every detail.’

‘Pauline Fowler has great wisdom and judgment. She knows how to find creative solutions that work for real families but isn’t afraid to fight when needed.’

‘The team offers strength in depth across all family law matters, particularly matrimonial finance. HFC have also managed to retain their user friendly style, avoiding becoming the ‘big corporate’ and maintaining focus on the individual client. I believe that this is greatly appreciated by clients.’

‘Mark Harper continues to stand out as a leading practitioner. His experience in international matters and trusts positions him as the ‘go to’ lawyer in these complex areas. His down-to-earth manner is greatly appreciated.’

‘Alex Carruthers is a powerhouse of a lawyer, very experienced and exceptionally good at managing clients who have the highest of expectations.’

‘HFC are the stand out market leaders in family law. Their clients can be 100% confident that they are getting the right advice and that the best team on their side.’

Work highlights


  • Represented Natalia Potanina in the landmark cases Potanin v Potanina [2021] EWCA Civ 702 and Potanina v Potanina [2024] UKSC 3, staking the client’s claim for financial relief after a Russian divorce proceeding awarded her less than 1% of her ex-husband’s estimated $19bn fortune.
  • Representing a wife in heavily disputed, high-stakes financial proceedings in the High Court, reported as DR v ES [2022] EWFC 62, and related proceedings under the Children Act.
  • Successfully acted for the ex-wife of a millionaire hotelier to set aside a consent order from March 2018.

Kingsley Napley LLP

The ‘high-powered, well-respected’ family team at Kingsley Napley LLP has a ‘first-class reputation’, and is ‘often at the cutting edge of new developments’. The team often undertakes international work, with particular experience relating to France and the US. Sital Fontenelle took over as head of the family team in March 2024 from Charlotte Bradley, who now spearheads the team’s mediation offering. Fontenelle offers extensive experience in both financial and children cases, including leave to remove. ‘Superstar’ Jane Keir is the go-to in the team for wealth protection both pre- and post-divorce, while Connie Atkinson, ‘a shining light‘, is skilled in complex surrogacy cases. Atkinson, Lauren Evans and Stacey Nevin also practice as mediators; Evans regularly handles international issues and Nevin is particularly sought after for matters involving complex trust structures. Abby Buckland‘s practice focuses on high-net-worth financial and children cases. Rachel Freeman departed the team to Burgess Mee in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Sital Fontenelle


Other key lawyers:

Jane Keir; Charlotte Bradley; Connie Atkinson; Lauren Evans; Stacey Nevin; Will MacFarlane; Abby Buckland


Testimonials

‘Sital Fontenelle fights really hard for her clients. She has bags of energy and ideas – and never lets go if she thinks she is right.’

‘High-powered, well-respected team with strength in depth. They have seen it all, done it all, and well.’

‘The family team have a first-class reputation as being leading lawyers in matrimonial finance and children work across London. The team is one of the biggest in the city and each lawyer is excellent. They are often at the cutting edge of new developments, both in terms of technology and legal expertise.’

‘Jane Keir is a superstar. She builds confidence in all those around her.’

‘Kingsley Napley has a strong family team, particularly at partner level. There is a breadth to the work they do (complex and international finance work, high conflict children work, abduction, surrogacy, mediation). The individual lawyers are all approachable and easy to get along with. They are one of the top family firms in London, with high quality work and a good reputation.’

‘Connie Atkinson is a shining light in the family law world. As a solicitor, Connie is refreshingly understated and modest about her abilities, phenomenally hard-working and gives clients realistic and empathetic advice. Connie also has a thriving mediation practice and as a mediator, can unlock even the trickiest of cases in mediation.’

‘Abby Buckland is tenacious and doesn’t pull her punches – she has good judgment and really knows the detail of her cases.’

‘Lauren Evans is exceptionally good with clients and has a calm and reassuring manner about her – she really cares about their cases.

Payne Hicks Beach LLP

‘Quite simply the best HNW divorce team in London‘, the family offering at Payne Hicks Beach LLP provides ‘a top-rate level of service to clients and achieves fantastic results’. Nick Manners took over as head of the practice in May 2024, noted for his work on complicated financial remedy litigation and jurisdictional disputes. Fiona Shackleton is a standout figure in the team; ‘brilliant with clients and brilliant with the case‘, she is sought after by high-profile individuals for complex divorce proceedings. The team regularly handles wealth protection matters, including pre- and post-nuptial agreements; Philip McGuirk is a go-to for this work, which is also a focus of mediator Matthew Booth’s practice. ‘Big money’ cases, requiring expert valuations and complex budgets, are an area of strength for Ben Parry-Smith, while Simon Beccle is noted for work with an international element. Sarah Williams heads up the team’s modern family law offering, with extensive expertise regarding fertility, surrogacy, and adoption law. Katie Parkes is experienced in dealing with international children matters. Isabella Savill is also recommended. Catherine Costley and Joshua Moger departed the team in November 2023 to Fladgate LLP, and Harriet Errington was a ‘brilliant addition‘ from Boodle Hatfield LLP, joining the team in April 2024.

Practice head(s):

Nick Manners


Other key lawyers:

Baroness Fiona Shackleton; Simon Beccle; Philip McGuirk; Matthew Booth; Ben Parry-Smith; Sarah Williams; Katie Parkes; Luke Scarratt; Camellia Buckmaster; Victoria Hingston; Orlaith Devereaux; Laura Hallahan; Isabella Savill; Alex Curran; Harriet Errington


Testimonials

‘Payne Hicks Beach is one of the best firms in the country. They provide a top rate level of service to clients and achieve fantastic results.’

‘Simon Beccle is a brilliant lawyer and has fantastic judgment. He has a particularly good bedside manner with clients. You can immediately see that they trust him implicitly.’

‘Ben Parry-Smith has an ability to make complex legal concepts readily understandable for lay clients and fantastic relationships in the sector which improves prospects of settlement.’

‘There is no one like Baroness Fiona Shackleton. She is brilliant with clients and brilliant with the case. Her instincts are spot on.’

‘Nick Manners is fabulous with clients and great to work with. He has an easy but reassuring manner, such that he gets on with everyone whilst being able to give no nonsense advice. I would recommend him to anyone.’

‘Harriet Errington is a brilliant addition to the team with a real talent for jurisdictional work. She is a pleasure to work with and has an impressive ability to get to the heart of a case.’

‘Quite simply the best HNW divorce team in London, at every level.’

‘Sarah Williams is exceptional, particularly in the field of children law and modern families. I have worked with her on a number of complex cases within this field and she has been entirely dedicated to clients.’

Work highlights


  • Advising Mr Vladimir Potanin in relation to complex Part III proceedings brought by Mrs Potanina following their lengthy divorce proceedings in Russia.
  • Advising Mrs Collardeau-Fuchs in connection with contested financial remedy proceedings in the High Court.
  • Advising Mrs Standish in connection with contested financial remedy proceedings in the High Court.

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP‘s family team is ‘amongst the strongest in London‘, led ‘extremely well‘ by Anna Worwood, ‘an international relocation expert’, and arbitrator and head of strategy for the team James Stewart, who is ‘a first choice for cases involving prenuptial agreements or cross-border matters‘. A number of team members have specialist experience of international matters, including Anglo-US experienced Elizabeth Carson and Rebecca Carlyon, whose client base includes high-profile figures in entertainment, politics and finance. Jane Craig is particularly engaged in the law around cohabitees, and Linzi Bull is specialised in LGBTQ+ family issues including international surrogacy, and innovative use of pre-conception agreements. For complex financial matters, including those involving trust structures, family offices and offshore assets, Amanda Andrews is a go-to, while international child abduction work is regularly handled by Tammy Knox. In October 2024, the team was joined by Tom Amlot, Lucy Brown, and Kate Williams, all previously at AFP Bloom.

Practice head(s):

Anna Worwood; James Stewart


Other key lawyers:

Jane Craig; Amanda Andrews; Rebecca Carlyon; Elizabeth Carson; Tammy Knox; Amy Fox; Hannah Hayward; Linzi Bull; Lee Henderson; Tom Amlot; Lucy Brown; Kate Williams; Suzanne Kingston


Testimonials

‘This is my first choice family law firm in London, backed by an exceptional private client team and the team to whom I refer the vast majority of my friends and family – all of whom have given me excellent feedback and profuse thanks for the recommendation.’

‘James Stewart is my absolute go to and a first choice for cases involving prenuptial agreements or cross-border matters due to his incredible international network and experience in this sort of work.’

‘You can’t beat partner Linzi Bull for expertise, empathy and endeavour. She really is top notch. Tom Amlot is an assured and hugely experienced operator determined to get the very best for his client. Lucy Brown is one to watch. She is very strategic in achieving a result for her client.’

‘The family team at Penningtons is amongst the strongest in London. It is extremely well led by Anna Worwood who is an international relocation expert and leads from the front. Clients will always be reassured that by being represented by PMC they will have the right mix of fight and negotiation skills.’

‘Tammy Knox is a leading children lawyer, Chair of the Resolution Children Committee and able to find a way through the most complicated and intractable cases. She can deal exceptionally quickly with child abduction and international enquiries.’

‘Penningtons Manches Cooper has a well deserved reputation as one of the strongest London firms. It is very efficient – in-house expertise is always available. The new generation coming through is exceptionally good. ’

‘Rebecca Carlyon has deep expertise in matrimonial matters. She is a very sympathetic listener who gives sensible, well judged advice based on a her many years of experience. She is extremely personable to deal with.’

‘Anna Worwood is a standout partner. She handles the most complex of cases both dealing with the finances and the children. She has all the interpersonal skills to manage the most difficult of situations and clients. She has perfect judgement and makes all the right calls in the big cases. The team goes from strength to strength with her as head of it.’

Stewarts Law LLP

Praised as ‘the strongest matrimonial team in London – and indeed the UK’, Stewarts Law LLP‘s family team boasts ‘several big hitting partners and strength in depth at all levels‘. Department head and ‘master strategistStephen Foster is recommended as a go-to for ‘high value, multi jurisdictional and complicated matters‘. ‘Excellent negotiator’ Debbie Chism is highlighted for her collaborative practice, while Matthew Humphries‘ litigation experience stands out. For international matters, in particular those in the US, Emma Hatley is a go-to; Toby Atkinson also sought after for these issues. Richard Hogwood is ‘the mastermind of pre and post nups’, valued for his ‘thoughtful and empathetic approach‘. Carly Kinch often handles matters involving trusts, family businesses and inherited wealth, while Lucy Stewart-Gould spearheads the team’s links with Hong Kong and the Middle East. Lewis Powers is also recommended, and Helen Ward remains a key figure in the team.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Foster


Other key lawyers:

Helen Ward; Debbie Chism; Richard Hogwood; Emma Hatley; Carly Kinch; Lewis Powers; Toby Atkinson; Lucy Stewart-Gould; Matthew Humphries; Voirrey Ward; Charlotte Sanders; Sam Longworth


Testimonials

‘Probably the best family law team in London that goes from strength to strength under the leadership of Stephen Foster. Every member of it is five stars. The associates are superb and so well trained.’

‘In the words of Tina Turner, simply the best. Stewarts are, without doubt, the pre-eminent family firm in London.’

‘The top team in the country for financial remedies work. They have several big hitting partners and strength in depth at all levels.’

‘There are by far the strongest matrimonial team in London – and indeed the UK. Their coverage is extremely strong with a number of a stand out partners.’

‘Stephen Foster remains the master strategist and where you have high value, multi jurisdictional and complicated matters, he is the go to individual. His gravitas permutates any situation.’

‘Richard Hogwood is cerebral and the mastermind of pre and post nups. He has an excellent, thoughtful, and empathetic approach. A real star.’

‘Stewarts Law have good strength in depth across the family law team. They have wide ranging litigation experience on which they can draw to assist their clients in the most challenging cases. They routinely attract top level work, and are also increasing their profile in child law matters.’

‘If you want a lawyer who oozes confidence, Debbie Chism is the one. An excellent negotiator who, unlike many, maintains a good practice in collaborative law.’

Withers LLP

Without doubt one of the top London firms‘, Withers LLP fields a family team with ‘a strength in depth, from the most junior trainee to the most senior partner, which is unparalleled‘. The group’s non-court dispute resolution offering, including the firm’s Uncouple model, is a standout element: Claire Blakemore and Diana Parker are key to the model’s development, and Adele Pledger is also noted for her mediation work. ‘Superb‘ team head Suzanne Todd has notable experience in Anglo-Italian matters and multijurisdictional pre-nups, while Michael Gouriet regularly acts for entrepreneurs and land owners. Katharine Landells is recommended as ‘a cut above‘ in financially and emotionally complex cases, and Brett Frankle‘s practice spans financial disputes and private law children work, including international relocations. Julian Lipson‘s work often features tax and trust concerns, which are also a strength for the ‘bright and effective’ Jennifer Dickson. Alexander Breedon has a growing practice in jurisdiction/forum disputes, and Sarfraz Ali is praised for his ‘keen eye for detail‘.

Practice head(s):

Suzanne Todd


Other key lawyers:

Julian Lipson; Diana Parker; Claire Blakemore; Brett Frankle; Michael Gouriet; Katharine Landells; Jennifer Dickson; Alexander Breedon; Sarfraz Ali; Paulina Sandler; Adele Pledger; Joanna Lazarus


Testimonials

‘Jennifer Dickson is a rising star and has a very bright future ahead of her. She is very bright and effective and will look for creative and pragmatic solutions for her clients. She always has her clients’ interests front and centre.’

‘Katharine Landells is a pleasure to work with. She plays with a straight bat, cuts to the chase, and is solution focused for clients. That is a breath of fresh air when acting against London firms. She’s a cut above.’

‘Sarfraz Ali works efficiently, has a keen eye for detail and welcomes an open dialogue on resolving issues for clients. He is a rising star.’

‘Without doubt one of the top London firms. A well-deserved reputation for providing an elite service.’

‘In my opinion, Withers is the standout family law team in London. They have a strength in depth, from the most junior trainee to the most senior partner, which is unparalleled.’

‘Withers are an exceptionally strong team – they have good people with a broad range of strengths and abilities and are exceptionally good at pulling together teams of personnel at different levels of experience.’

‘Suzanne Todd is superb – she is very adept at communicating complex issues in a straightforward way. She is extremely good working in a team and is good at getting the best out of people – both lawyers and clients.’

‘A strong and deep team involved in the biggest cases. Put real effort into technical knowledge and have a wide breadth of experience. Their uncoupling offering is novel and being copied by others.’

AFP Bloom

AFP Bloom was created from the merger of Alexiou Fisher Phillips and BloomBudd in February 2024, pairing the former’s longstanding experience in the market with the latter’s innovative approaches. Franco-British cross-qualified William Healing and Zoë Bloom, ‘a force of nature‘ who specialises in complex financial remedies litigation, are key names to note. The firm’s children unit is headed up by Victoria Toy , ‘an exceptional talent‘ whose practice involves Family Law Act proceedings and social services issues, and is often international. Trained mediator Nicole Derham ‘provides excellent support for the vulnerable client’. Previous team head Tom Amlot joined Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP in October 2024 alongside Lucy Brown and Kate Williams, and Katie Longmate departed to Russell-Cooke LLP in January 2024.

Other key lawyers:

William Healing; Magnus Mill; Zoë Bloom; Nicole Derham; Victoria Toy


Testimonials

‘The team offers an exceptional service; real attention to detail, pragmatic and outcome-focused advice and a brilliant understanding of the risks and benefits of going to trial for each individual they represent.’

‘Victoria Toy is an exceptional talent. She blends a brilliant legal mind with exceptionally high ‘EQ’, This means she is able to assess and advise on best outcomes and can give robust advice when necessary.’

‘Magnus Mill is able to keep on board even the most demanding of clients with his unflappable calmness and strategic talent.’

‘This merger is a good mix with the seasoned elegance of William Healing combining with the vigour of Zoë Bloom and Nicole Derham.’

‘William Healing is very approachable and first class. William has a substantial French practice.’

‘Zoë Bloom is a force of nature and Nicole Derham is an unflappable lawyer who provides excellent support for the vulnerable client.’

Work highlights


  • Instructed by litigation lenders, Integro Lending Limited pursuing the repayment of a loan advanced within financial remedy proceedings.
  • Acted in Court of Appeal case Cazalet v Abu Zalaf (reported as Cazalet v Abu Zalaf [2023] EWCA Civ 1065- acting for the husband on an appeal by his wife against the previous High Court order.
  • Advised on a cross-border assets case with potentially up to £60m of non-disclosed crypto assets.

Boodle Hatfield LLP

Emily Brand heads up the family team at Boodle Hatfield LLP, providing a ‘Rolls Royce service for clients, with talented lawyers at every level‘. Brand is a go-to for cases involving private equity, hedge funds and family businesses, acting for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. International work is often handled by James Ferguson, whose expertise spans intricate tax and trust issues, while Katie O’Callaghan is recommended for her ability to handle ‘eye wateringly complex work’, regularly involving high-value family businesses. Alexandra Hirst is sought after for proceedings involving onshore and offshore trust assets, and Katie Male has experience of cross-jurisdictional matters. Harriet Errington departed the team in April 2024 to Payne Hicks Beach LLP.

Practice head(s):

Emily Brand


Other key lawyers:

James Ferguson; Katie O’Callaghan; Alexandra Hirst; Katie Male


Testimonials

‘Boodle Hatfield offers excellent legal advice and delivers it with empathy and sensitivity.’

‘Katie O’Callaghan offers first class, considered advice and she has an intuitive grasp of our family situation.’

‘Led by the extraordinary Emily Brand, alongside the formidable Katie O’Callaghan, this team represents the pinnacle of excellence and commitment.’

Fladgate LLP

Fladgate LLP’s ‘strong family team’ was bolstered in November 2023 by the addition of Catherine Costley and Joshua Moger from Payne Hicks Beach LLP. The practice draws on the firm’s private capital focus, often advising those with family businesses and passion asset collectors. Teresa Cullen is noted for her ‘formidable’ knowledge of finance cases, while Hetty Gleave’s art and cultural property expertise supports her work with high-net-worth divorces. Pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and financial provisions for unmarried parents are both areas in which Costley is particularly experienced, and Moger is ‘tenacious and enthusiastic’ in both finance and children matters. Rebecca Christie has notable experience working with victims of domestic abuse. The practice also saw a notable boost in September 2024 with the additional recruitment of the highly regarded Rebecca Cockcroft from Payne Hicks Beach LLP; Cockcroft now heads up the practice.

Practice head(s):

Rebecca Cockcroft


Other key lawyers:

Teresa Cullen; Hetty Gleave; Rebecca Christie; Catherine Costley; Joshua Moger


Testimonials

‘Hetty Gleave is an experienced and highly proficient family lawyer with an excellent sense of judgment.’

‘Rebecca Christie is a rising star, surely one of the best associate solicitors in London with huge technical acumen and a very hardworking lawyer. Its always good to work on matters with them.’

‘Teresa Cullen is formidable in the knowledge she has about private and finance cases. She is not afraid to give the ‘tough advice’ which is often needed in these cases but does so in a sympathetic and knowledgeable way.’

‘Hetty Gleave is devoted to her client’s cause. Clients always feel supremely supported by Hetty even though she does not shy away from giving unpalatable advice when required.’

‘Catherine Costley has some of the best client care skills around, empathetic, uncanny knack for teasing out a client’s real objectives, easy to work with and very diligent. Clients trust her unconditionally.’

‘Joshua Moger is a future superstar junior partner. Technically astute, good with figures, on top of the law, great client skills and generally affable.’

‘A strong family law team is being built here, particularly with the recent additions of Catherine Costley and Joshua Moger.’

‘Joshua Moger is tenacious and enthusiastic in putting his clients’ cases; humane and understanding behind the scenes.’

Forsters LLP

Sitting within ‘one of the best private client teams in the country‘, the Forsters LLP family team applies a ‘rigorous and realistic approach’ to its cases including high-value nuptial agreements and international child arrangements. Team head Joanne Edwards is ‘one of the leading family lawyers of her generation‘, a mediator often dealing with international children and finance matters. Rosie Schumm, ‘a charismatic and dynamic stand out individual‘, is a go-to for strategic advice in complex matters. Simon Blain regularly handles child relocation matters and provides advice on international surrogacy arrangements, while Dickon Ceadel specialises in the negotiation of international nuptial agreements. Amanda Sandys is recommended for her ‘great judgment‘, and is regularly sought out by unmarried families.

Practice head(s):

Joanne Edwards


Other key lawyers:

Rosie Schumm; Simon Blain; Dickon Ceadel; Amanda Sandys; Timothy Evans; Guy Mawson; Anna Ferster


Testimonials

‘Rosie Schumm is a charismatic and dynamic stand out individual with a huge practice and a stellar client list. Her intelligence and sound judgement mean she achieves great outcomes.’

‘Simon Blain is an extremely accomplished and knowledgeable partner.’

‘Rosie Schumm is superb. She is an excellent lawyer, and has great client skills: charming, sympathetic, understanding.’

‘The whole team are amazing – all the juniors/associates are spectacularly hard working and diligent. They care deeply about their cases. They are super smart and switched on.’

‘Rosie Schumm is the master. No one better. Clients love her – and it’s not hard to understand why.’

‘Amanda Sandys is clever, personable and has great judgment.’

‘The Forsters family team are what you expect within one of the best private client teams in the country: excellent lawyers, a rigorous and realistic approach to their cases and excellent client care.’

‘Joanne Edwards is one of the leading family lawyers of her generation. She is excellent at getting clients good results while avoiding courts and litigation, but where necessary she fights her cases hard and with tenacity, while at all times keeping the client reassured and feeling supported.’

Freemans Solicitors

‘One of the go to firms for children work‘, Freemans Solicitors combines expertise in public and private children law with a specialist matrimonial finance team. Team head Nina Hansen is ‘second to none‘ in her work for vulnerable children engaged with local authorities and high-profile, often aristocratic, clients alike. For international matters Laura Coyle is a go-to: ‘her technical expertise is second to none and she is a tactical genius’. Mark Kosmin heads up the matrimonial team, supported by Georgina Stavrou, specialising in matters involving complex asset structures. Marianna Michaelides joined the team from Bindmans LLP in November 2023, with particular expertise in international parental child abduction work. Andriana Syrimis is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Nina Hansen


Other key lawyers:

Laura Coyle; Andriana Syrimis; Gulizar Candemir; Sophie Lambert; Georgina Stavrou; Mark Kosmin; Claire Leslie; Marianna Michaelides; Samantha Harris


Testimonials

‘Freemans is one of the go to firms for children work. They are well known for their public law work, but they are also incredibly experienced in complex private law matters, particularly in difficult cases where their expertise in international and public law matters gives a real advantage over other firms.’

‘Samantha Harris works extremely hard for her clients and leaves no stone unturned in trying to secure the best outcome for them.’

‘Sophie Lambert is a superb solicitor who works tirelessly for her clients. She is pragmatic, sensible and has great judgement.’

‘Nina Hansen is very well known and respected in the world of children law. She is extremely bright, knowledgeable and knows the law on children matters inside out.’

‘Gulizar Candemir is outstanding in her representation of parents and children in care cases. She is very calm, even when under immense pressure and is utterly committed to fairness and to presenting her client’s cases in the most beneficial light possible.’

‘Laura Coyle is frankly the best solicitor out there in the market and, in her own advocacy, is better than most Silks. She is on top of everything and takes no prisoners in fighting for her clients. Her technical expertise is second to none and she is a tactical genius!’

‘Excellent all-round advice and representation in children law matters, including public, private and international issues. This is very rare.’

‘Nina Hansen’s expertise surely well exceeds most of her competitors. She can handle anything: she can ably represent a severely disadvantaged parent in complex care proceedings, an UHNW parent in challenging private law proceedings and run complex legal arguments in the Supreme Court. Second to none.’

Goodman Ray

A heavyweight firm’, Goodman Ray is ‘always instructed for one of the parties in the most interesting and high-profile cases‘, with particular expertise in public law children matters alongside its private children and matrimonial work. Its deep bench of leaders includes Peggy Ray, a complex children work specialist; Trudi Featherstone, who is head of matrimonial finance; Jemma Dally, who is an adoption, surrogacy, and international childcare expert; Kevin Skinner, a go-to for alternative families matters; and mediator solicitor Thomas Brownrigg. Catriona Allan was made partner in October 2023, specialising in care proceedings and often conducting her own advocacy. The ‘hugely experienced’ Emma Sherrington is another key member of the care team, representing parents dealing with allegations of harm. Janet Broadley and Ann Thompson are also recommended. Hannah Perry joined the team from TV Edwards Solicitors LLP in March 2024.

Practice head(s):

Peggy Ray; Trudi Featherstone; Jemma Dally; Kevin Skinner; Thomas Brownrigg


Other key lawyers:

Catriona Allan; Emma Sherrington; Janet Broadley; Ann Thompson; Hannah Perry


Testimonials

‘I believe anyone will be in safe hands with Thomas Brownrigg. An outstanding solicitor who made me feel at ease throughout the hearings and achieved the best result for my family.’

‘Emma Sherrington is fantastic in all areas of private and public law children work. Really bright. Hugely experienced.’

‘A heavyweight firm who is always instructed for one of the parties in the most interesting and high-profile cases. It has a particular presence in care proceedings, but also a very good option for private law cases.’

‘Goodman Ray are market leaders and at the top of their game for all aspects of family law. At every level, they provide an excellent service for each and every client.’

‘Jemma Dally is a Star amongst Stars. She works tirelessly for every client and has exceptional judgment.’

‘Janet Broadley is outstanding in children law, especially in international cases. She is rightly regarded as the best lawyer for representing children.’

‘Ann Thompson is a legend amongst family lawyers. Her client skills are exceptional and she is one of the most in-demand solicitors in London. She is available at all times of day to clients and goes the extra mile.’

‘Kevin Skinner knows everything about international family law cases. He acts for parents and children and has been involved in some of the key cutting edge cases.’

Key clients

Reunite


Family Rights Group


Harbottle & Lewis LLP

Harbottle & Lewis LLPis the perfect example of what a boutique specialist London family law firm can offer’, often dealing with high-profile individuals and offering expertise across complex financial arrangements and vulnerable children cases. Department head Catherine Bedford is recommended for her approach to high-value, reputationally sensitive matters, working regularly with the firm’s reputation protection and media team. Multijurisdictional matters are an area of expertise for Nicholas Westley, while Mark Irving ‘fiercely‘ represents his clients in both children and financial cases. Lidia Cantele is noted for her ‘sophisticated and subtle insight‘ on large, long-running matters, while Polly Broad has particular experience with vulnerable clients, including those experiencing coercive and controlling behaviour.

Practice head(s):

Catherine Bedford


Other key lawyers:

Nicholas Westley; Mark Irving; Lidia Cantele; Naomi Myatt; Alex Ward; Eleanor Haidon; Xander Drury; Emma Williams; Polly Broad


Testimonials

‘Harbottle & Lewis are the perfect example of what a boutique specialist London family law firm can offer. Their partners are universally very good and their associates are brilliant. They deserve in my view to be ranked up there with the top firms in the country.’

‘Lidia Cantele is a brilliant partner; really bright, on the ball and gives measured advice behind the scenes, but is willing to fight if needed.’

‘Catherine Bedford is a remarkably efficient, caring and ferocious lawyer. The combination of her skills makes her extremely successful in her approach to client facing situations and cases. I would highly recommend her.’

‘Harbottle & Lewis LLP is a dedicated, diligent and determined team of family lawyers which provided a bespoke and impeccable personal service.’

‘Mark Irving and Nicholas Westley are exceptionally talented young lawyers with a huge appetite for work and success.’

‘Harbottle & Lewis are involved in many of the most high-profile, high-value and controversial cases, and offer a Rolls-Royce service to their clients.’

‘Lidia Cantele brings sophisticated and subtle insight to cases courtrooms, and clients.’

‘Mark Irving is a top lawyer, very clever. Calm demeanour but a fighter underneath it all, fiercely representing his clients. Great knowledge of his specialist area.’

Hunters Law LLP

Commercially savvy but with high levels of emotional intelligence‘, the Hunters Law LLP team has recently grown with the addition of Alex Brereton from Mishcon de Reya LLP and Maria Wright from Children and Families Across Borders in February 2024; Brereton ‘brings a sure-footed, enthusiastic and knowledgeable approach‘ to complex financial proceedings. ‘Indomitable’ team head Henry Hood has a particular specialism in cases involving landed estates and farms, while Richard Kershaw offers ‘unparalleled’ expertise in private equity cases. Jo Carr-West is recommended for her mediation work, Olivia Piercy‘s domestic abuse work is particularly noted, and Amy Scollan is experienced in finance cases involving complex trust structures. The practice also gained the expertise of Amy Rowe in 2024, who added notable international children law expertise.

Practice head(s):

Henry Hood


Other key lawyers:

Richard Kershaw; Olivia Piercy; Amy Scollan; Eri Horrocks; Jo Carr-West; Mark Stiebel; Alex Brereton; Maria Wright; Amy Rowe


Testimonials

‘The Hunters Family Law Department are one of the best in the country, headed up by the indomitable Henry Hood.’

‘Richard Kershaw is one of the best family law solicitors currently working. His legal ability and judgment are more or less unparalleled.’

‘Eri Horrocks is a star in the making – exceptionally able for her years of qualification.’

‘The firm takes a holistic approach to cases – commercially savvy but with high levels of emotional intelligence. Great at cases involving old money and those requiring sensitivity.’

‘Jo Carr-West is brilliant at both children and financial cases. An unerring ability to get to the nub of a case with a thoughtful and holistic approach to clients and their problems.’

‘Alex Brereton brings a sure-footed, enthusiastic and knowledgeable approach to complex money cases.’

‘Olivia Piercy is particularly well placed to identify and to properly explain domestic abuse issues. She is empathetic and adept at conveying a client’s perspective in written evidence.’

‘Maria Wright has very extensive experience in international family law cases including international child abduction and jurisdiction issues.’

Work highlights


  • Successfully represented a father appealing a return order made under the 1980 Hague Convention in the Court of Appeal.
  • Successfully acting for a wife in financial remedy proceedings to secure a share of future private equity receipts following a ten-day High Court hearing.

Levison Meltzer Pigott

Levison Meltzer Pigott is ‘a small but perfectly formed boutique firm in central London’, which is ‘known for the quality of its partners and associates and punching above its weight‘. The group's work includes complex financial matters, including international assets, trust structures, and jurisdictional disputes. Co-founder and team head Simon Pigott has a notable mediation practice; along with Jeremy Levison , the pair are praised as ‘titans of family law’. Kate Stovold specialises in financial claims, including those with international elements, and is experienced in nuptial agreements. International work is also an area of expertise for Benjamin Stowe, who is ‘tenacious, hungry and unafraid to give the right advice’.

Practice head(s):

Simon Pigott


Other key lawyers:

Jeremy Levison; Alison Hayes; Kate Stovold; Benjamin Stowe; Natasha Methven; Lucy Hoare


Testimonials

‘They have a team of extremely experienced, empathetic and punchy solicitors, who drive a hard bargain in negotiations with a keen eye to the likely outcome at a final hearing.’

‘Levison Meltzer Pigott is the epitome of a brilliant boutique firm. Under the guidance of Jeremy Levison and Simon Pigott, the firm has a wonderful stable of brilliant partners and juniors, all of whom work hard to achieve brilliant results.’

‘Benjamin Stowe is tenacious, hungry and unafraid to give the right advice. He handles tricky clients, counsel and opponents well and is wonderfully fair minded.’

‘Natasha Methven is everything you want in a solicitor. She really cares and has a complete handle on a case. Her star will rise.’

‘Jeremy Levison and Simon Pigott are two titans of family law. Their experience is almost unmatched in the industry and they are so good at what they do.’

‘LMP are a small but perfectly formed boutique firm in central London, who are known for the quality of their partners and associates and punching above their weight in terms of work.’

‘Kate Stovold is a partner who punches well above her weight in terms of the quality of work she does and the way she deals with her cases. She is shrewd, has great tactical instincts but is compassionate and always striving for the best for her clients.’

‘Lucy Hoare is a committed and talented solicitor. Goes above and beyond.’

Work highlights


  • Acted for the applicant husband (a non-sanctioned Russian) in contested financial remedy proceedings reserved in the High Court.
  • Rrepresented the husband in a case in relation to an application made by a former wife to appeal out of time against a consent order made post-divorce in relation to periodical payments and his cross-application to strike out her claim.

Mills & Reeve LLP

The family team at Mills & Reeve LLP has experience across both finance and children work, drawing on the expertise of its teams across the country and practice groups including the agriculture, personal tax, and immigration teams. Joanna Grandfield heads up the practice, combining experience as a barrister with a mediation practice and a collaborative approach, and specialising in complex financial matters. Children law specialist Zoe Fleetwood heads up the firm’s national children team, and is particularly strong in high conflict cases, often representing children. Colin Rogerson is also a member of the children law team, focusing his practice on surrogacy and assisted reproduction work.

Practice head(s):

Joanna Grandfield


Other key lawyers:

Colin Rogerson; David Hickmott; Amy Starnes; Caitlin Jenkins; Zoe Fleetwood; Melissa Lesson


Mishcon de Reya LLP

Mishcon de Reya LLP is ‘one of the best and leading firms in the country for family law work‘. The family team is headed up by Kate Clark, ‘a complete star’ whose practice focuses on complex financial remedy cases, often international in nature. Claire Yorke heads up the team’s non-court dispute resolution group; she is a mediator and ‘one of the very best and brightest partners working in family law’. The ‘wickedly intelligent and strategically mindedBarbara Reeves is noted for her work with the department’s addiction specialist team, which is also an area of strength for Clare Radcliffe. Sandra Davis, who is ‘frankly leagues ahead of her competitors‘, specialises in ultra-high-net-worth cases with media elements. Antonia Felix leads the team’s surrogacy and modern families group, while James Rees is a go-to for cases with a Middle East element.

Practice head(s):

Kate Clark


Other key lawyers:

Sandra Davis; Barbara Reeves; Claire Yorke; Clare Radcliffe; Antonia Felix; James Rees; Alice Mantle


Testimonials

‘A strong team with excellent support from top notch international private client, reputation and commercial lawyers. Slick, modern and ambitious.’

‘Antonia Felix is a star: industrious, measured, confident of her own abilities with a great instinct. A joy to work with and a stand-out lawyer.’

‘Claire Yorke is a one of the very best and brightest partners working in family law. She never misses a trick and invariably sets the very best strategies for all her clients.’

‘Sandra Davis is frankly leagues ahead of her competitors not just in ability as a lawyer but in her charm. She is by far the nicest divorce lawyer in London. She has razor sharp ability to get right to the heart of a problem and resolve it to her client’s very best advantage.’

‘James Rees is a great partner with a planet sized brain. What a lawyer! You want him on your side. He thinks outside the box and fights hard for the very best outcomes.’

‘Barbara Reeves is an amazing lawyer, remaining at the very top of her game. Clients adore her. She is wickedly intelligent and strategically minded.’

‘One of the best and leading firms in the country for family law work. The calibre of lawyer they have is at the peak of the family law world.’

‘Kate Clark is a complete star – numerate and with fantastic judgment – I would much prefer having her on my team than being against her!’

Newton Kearns LLP

Newton Kearns LLP ‘brings all the benefits of a boutique practice to the table‘ and clients praise the team as ‘dedicated, engaged, agile and flexible’; it is led by co-founders Patrick Kearns, ‘a hugely talented lawyer‘, and the ‘super bright, sensible and trustworthy’ Paul Newton. The team’s focus is on complex and high-value financial disputes, as well as nuptial agreements and resolutions after the breakdown of cohabiting relationships. Frances Petterson is ‘head and shoulders above her peers‘, experienced in both complex finance and domestic and international children matters, including adoptions. Victoria Francis rounds out the partnership, and Ali Granville is recommended as ‘superbly talented‘. All partners in the team are trained mediators.

Practice head(s):

Paul Newton; Patrick Kearns


Other key lawyers:

Frances Petterson; Ali Granville; Victoria Francis


Testimonials

‘Ali Granville is a superbly talented lawyer. She is making real waves and is leading the next generation. She works ferociously hard and pairs that determination with a highly detailed knowledge of her client’s position.’

‘Frances Petterson is superb. Head and shoulders above her peers, she is extremely intelligent and fearless. She’s the real deal.’

‘Newton Kearns is a small team that punches above its weight. They have some real quality/big money cases that are handled with sensitivity & compassion. A fantastic team!’

‘The firm brings all the benefits of a boutique practice to the table. The team are dedicated, engaged, agile and flexible.’

‘Paul Newton is a rainmaker. He is well respected and incredibly well liked by both clients and the legal profession. A constructive lawyer who is a pleasure to work with.’

‘Patrick Kearns is a hugely talented lawyer. His legal acumen is as good as anyone in the market. He is also a pleasure to work with.’

‘Paul Newton on top of the family lawyer tree. Super bright, sensible, trustworthy, responsive and an absolute pleasure to deal with as a client or an opponent.’

‘Patrick Kearns is an all round great lawyer, straightforward and takes no nonsense, at the same time as being a dream to deal with.’

Osbornes

‘A market leader’ across ‘public law, international cases, financial and children work’, Osbornes‘ family team is headed up by Mark Freedman, a mediator and ‘fighter who will get the job done‘ on both complex financial matters and international children cases. Lisa Pepper is a go-to for non-court dispute resolution, and Andrew Watson is a cohabitation specialist, while Joanne Wescott specialises in divorce and finance matters. The firm’s alternative parenting team is headed up by Naomi Angell, handling domestic and international adoption, surrogacy, and fertility issues including experience working with the LGBTQ+ community. Lauren Hall leads the international children team, while Maria Kitsiou heads up the domestic children offering. Yael Selig joined the team in September 2023 from legacy firm Ince & Co, leading the Hampstead office. Diana Bastow is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Mark Freedman


Other key lawyers:

Lisa Pepper; Maria Kitsiou; Lauren Hall; Joanne Wescott; Diana Bastow; Jonathan Jonas; Naomi Angell; Andrew Watson; Simone McGrath; Tom Trim; Claire Andrews; Yael Selig


Testimonials

‘Mark Freedman is incredibly responsive and conscientious with great street-smarts. A fighter who will get the job done.’

‘The family law team at Osbornes is one of the strongest in London; across all areas of work from public law, international cases, financial and children work, Osbornes is a market leader.’

‘Tom Trim is well known as a devoted and hardworking practitioner who always gives his best to his cases. I am always impressed by his command of the facts and drive to get the best result possible.’

‘Yael Selig is a committed, enthusiastic and energetic lawyer who combines a wise and kind demeanour with great legal savvy. Bilingual in Spanish and English she is the go-to person for divorce cases involving Gibraltar particularly, or Spain.’

‘Andrew Watson is a master tactician. He knows his strongest points and is rarely wrong.’

‘Claire Andrews is one of the best of the younger crop of partners in London. She has client care skills in spades and is understanding and empathetic whilst keeping a focus on the right strategy.’

‘Simone McGrath has an incredible knowledge of international cases. She has been involved in many leading cases and is a go-to lawyer in the field.’

‘Maria Kitsiou is an outstanding solicitor who emanates calm confidence.’

Russell-Cooke LLP

As ‘a truly excellent firm‘, Russell-Cooke LLP‘s family team is ‘always at the forefront of developments’ from a range of non-court dispute resolution options, including mediation and arbitration, to international surrogacy arrangements. James Carroll, managing partner, is ‘a brilliant strategist‘ with experience of complex financial disputes, leading the central London team alongside Kate Hamilton, who is ‘second to none‘; Katie Longmate, who joined the team in January 2024 from AFP Bloom; and Jemma Pollock, who is a go-to for cohabitation disputes. Arbitrator Fiona Read and financial specialist Hannah Minty co-head the Putney team. Sarah Richardson leads the children team, handling serious child protection matters and with a growing practice in alternative family law, where Jade Quirke, a fertility law specialist, is a particularly experienced. Samantha Little and Rachel Donald are also recommended.

Practice head(s):

James Carroll; Kate Hamilton; Katie Longmate; Jemma Pollock; Fiona Read; Hannah Minty; Hannah Field; Miranda Green; Sarah Richardson


Other key lawyers:

Jade Quirke; Imogen Nolan; Jasmin Talai; Samantha Little; Rachel Donald


Testimonials

‘Sarah Richardson is a market leader in complex children law cases, an absolute go to. She has the most extraordinary patience and empathy and an unparalleled knowledge of public law.’

‘Jade Quirke has built up a real following in modern families work. She is hardworking and innovative in her approach.’

‘Russell Cooke are a truly excellent firm, particularly in the field of children law. They are always at the forefront of developments.’

‘Katie Longmate is a popular addition to the partnership. Katie is passionate about all her clients, capable, unflappable and very well respected by her peers.’

‘Samantha Little – very experienced and solid children lawyer, with additional expertise in adoption and surrogacy, good juniors coming through.’

‘The team are friendly, efficient and always available. They are compassionate and professional. I always felt I was an important client even though my case was small.’

‘Kate Hamilton’s expertise, efficiency and empathy was second to none. I would highly recommend her to others.’

‘James Carroll is everything you could ask for in a Partner. He is highly empathetic but firm. He is a brilliant strategist but willing to dive into the detail.’

Work highlights


  • Advising the Wife in respect of a post-nuptial agreement where the assets are in the region of $850m and there are existing US pre-nuptial agreements.
  • Representing one party in relation to the dissolution of a civil partnership and associated financial remedy proceedings in the High Court where there are significant arguments in relation to pre-partnership wealth, a pre-partnership agreement (signed without legal advice), the date of separate and conduct arguments.
  • Acting for a parent in relation to a parental order application made out of time following a surrogacy arrangement in India.

The International Family Law Group LLP

The International Family Law Group LLP ‘really is second to none’ as a specialist firm for international families and children with connections to England and Wales. Managing partner Lucy Loizou is particularly sought after by Greek and Cypriot clients, with expertise in trust and corporate assets. For nuptial agreements, Lucy Greenwood is the key name to note, while overseas pensions are an area of expertise for Michael Allum. Helen Blackburn is ‘exceptional‘ in cross-border child law, notably abduction work, which is also an area of strength for James Netto, who has a growing practice in modern family and surrogacy work. Rosa Schofield joined the team in October 2023 from Family Law Partners, experienced in matters involving allegations of domestic abuse. Firm co-founder David Hodson OBE KC(Hons) MCIArb remains a key part of the practice.

Other key lawyers:

David Hodson OBE KC(Hons) MCIArb; Helen Blackburn; James Netto; Lucy Loizou; Michael Allum; Lucy Greenwood; Sarah Cornes; Rosa Schofield


Testimonials

‘James Netto is one of a kind; professionalism combined with kindness.’

‘They really are second to none. Impeccable conduct, professionalism, knowledge and client relations. I wouldn’t consider any other law firm.’

‘They leave no stone unturned in representing their clients to the very best of their abilities. Their name describes exactly where their excellence lies.’

‘Lucy Loizou will bring a welcome dose of knowledge and sanity to defeat the other parties’ attempts to create chaos and delays in the UK and across the Pond in the US.’

‘James Netto is not just a lawyer; he is a lifeline who stood with us against overwhelming odds. His expertise, coupled with his compassionate and client-centered approach, made all the difference.’

‘Helen Blackburn is exceptional. She is incredibly conscientious and hard working.’

‘This firm would be my first choice for any case involving an international element. They have contacts in multiple jurisdictions and can act swiftly to protect clients’ interests.’

‘Michael Allum is a stand out partner. He knows the case law and family procedure rules inside out which he uses in his cases with much aplomb and is a fountain of knowledge for all of us in the industry.’

Vardags

‘Both the Rolls Royce and the Ferrari of the family law world‘, Vardags stands out for its handling of ‘the most complex and difficult of cases‘. Firm founder and team head Ayesha Vardag, an ‘extremely intelligent lawyer’ valued for her ‘wise insights and clever strategies‘, often supports ultra-high-net-worth clients in complex financial disputes. Simon McKirgan is a go-to for difficult cases, including jurisdiction disputes. The children team is headed up by Caroline Korah, who is ‘the perfect balance of empathetic and tough’ and experienced in both domestic and international matters. David Lister joined the team from Rayden Solicitors in July 2023, and is ‘a stalwart and legend in the field‘, while the group gained Robert Hines in November 2023, who is ‘a brilliant and gifted lawyer’, from Mishcon de Reya LLP. Antonia Barker and Lois Rogers departed the team in August 2023 to Hamblin Family Law LLP and Ribet Myles, respectively.

Practice head(s):

Ayesha Vardag


Other key lawyers:

Simon McKirgan; Caroline Korah; David Lister; Robert Hines; Jennifer White; Ellie Hagan


Testimonials

‘Ayesha Vardag is extremely impressive not least because of the firm she has created but also client list she has. She is an extremely intelligent lawyer who contributes hugely to any case with wise insights and clever strategies.’

‘Robert Hines is a brilliant and gifted lawyer. He has a fantastic knowledge of matrimonial finance work and applies that knowledge with vigour.’

‘Vardags are both the Rolls Royce and the Ferrari of the family law world. The firm’s strength and ability is remarkable. They take on unwinnable cases and win, they fight the unfightable and succeed and they relish the most complex and difficult of cases.’

‘Simon McKirgan’s attention to detail is remarkable and his approach to family law devastatingly logical and right. If you have a hard case, go to him.’

‘David Lister is a stalwart and legend in the field, he is known for his good humour and compassion as well as his killer tactical instincts and legal experience. He is a joy to work with and clients love him.’

‘This is a slick and well organised team. They have great resources inhouse to support the advice they give to UHNW individuals – including tax advisers etc. The clients are very well looked after and praise the support they receive.’

‘Caroline Korah is the perfect balance of empathetic and tough. Fiercely intelligent and sensible. Clients love her and she’s a pleasure to work for.’

‘Ellie Hagan is an outstanding associate. Meticulous on top of the papers offering continual strong support to the client throughout the case.’

Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP

The Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP family team offers a ‘holistic service‘, providing advice across matrimonial finance issues, cohabitation disputes, complex children work, and wealth protection team members are praised as ‘not only brilliant lawyers, but amazing with clients’. Kim Beatson co-heads the family team, bringing ‘vast experience’ to high-value financial matters. Fellow co-head Sarah Hughes often handles family-owned business assets relating to divorces, nuptial agreements, and private children law matters. International surrogacy matters are an area of strength for Fiona Snowdon, while David Emmerson is a go-to for jurisdiction issues.

Practice head(s):

Kim Beatson; Sarah Hughes


Other key lawyers:

David Emmerson; Ruth Omoregie; Fiona Snowdon; Victoria Rylatt


Testimonials

‘Fiona Snowdon goes the extra mile for her clients. She is very sensible, very pragmatic, hard working and keen to settle if at all possible.’

‘From the most junior solicitor to the most senior partner, they breathe quality! From low asset to UHNW clients they are not only brilliant lawyers, but amazing with clients. They also have a very diverse range of skills.’

‘Anthony Gold offer holistic service to their clients. They are equally adept at litigating cases as they are getting round a table and negotiating amicable outcomes for their clients.’

‘David Emmerson offers the highest level of expertise across the family law spectrum. Equally adept at negotiating an outcome or at the coal face of litigation. You know when David is on a case that he will be firm but fair and fight for his clients.’

‘Kim Beatson is one of the doyennes of family law. She has vast experience. Detailed knowledge of the law and is concise and to the point but always focused on exploring any opportunity to find an amicable outcome.’

‘Ruth Omoregie is fantastic. She is clever, always on top of cases, and knowledgeable about the law. ’

‘Sarah Hughes is a stand out partner. She is calm and unflappable under pressure and has a bright, vibrant personality as well as an excellent knowledge of the law which makes her a pleasure to deal with for clients and opponents alike.’

‘The team at Anthony Gold is renowned not just for its expertise in family law, but for its dedication to ADR. Indeed, several of its ‘big names’ are second to none in this field and renowned for their proficiency.’

Bindmans LLP

Leveraging its ‘long-standing tradition of excellence‘, Bindmans LLP works on ‘important and complex‘ cases with standout experience in public children law cases. Alison Leivesley heads up the team, and is a specialist in children law with a growing international practice including FGM, domestic abuse, and forced marriage cases. Maud Davis is recommended as ‘extremely experienced, knowledgeable and hardworking‘ in the most complex public children cases. Melissa Arnold is the go-to for matrimonial finance work, and is a trained mediator with ‘a keen eye for detail’. Maeve Lucey is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Alison Leivesley


Other key lawyers:

Maud Davis; Maeve Lucey; Melissa Arnold; Hannah Marshall; Gillian Tyndall; Annie Leach


Testimonials

‘Bindmans’ approach is characterised by a long-standing tradition of excellence, manifested in a disciplined and serious approach to the cases it takes on, providing a service of exceptionally high quality to publicly and privately funded clients alike.’

‘Annie Leach is certainly one to watch and is way ahead of her peers at the same level.’

‘The Bindmans family team are sensational. They work on important and complex cases and work tirelessly for their clients.’

‘The Family Team under the very capable leadership of Alison Leivesley, is outstanding. Every member is really committed to their cases. They apply thought, knowledge, imagination and drive to bring about the best possible outcomes for their clients.’

‘Melissa Arnold is everything you would want in a solicitor. She is absolutely brilliant, thoughtful, tactical and compassionate. She has a keen eye for detail and a determination to go the extra mile.’

‘Hannah Marshall is definitely one to watch – all over the detail, personable, hard-working and responsive. A pleasure to be briefed by.’

‘Maud Davis is an extremely experienced, knowledgeable and hardworking solicitor. She is an excellent advocate for children and a great source of advice for children’s guardians.’

‘Maeve Lucey is an associate to watch. She always works hard for her clients, providing sensible and pragmatic advice and her clients rate her highly.’

Bross Bennett

Exceptional’ boutique Bross Bennett is co-headed by founders Sharon Bennett and Ruth Bross. Bennett is ‘one of the best family solicitors in the country’, and Bross is praised for fighting ‘harder than anyone for her clients‘. The team’s expertise spans complex financial disputes, nuptial agreements, and cohabitation breakdowns, alongside children work; it also offers non-court dispute resolution advice, with Anna Wagstaff a trained mediator. The ‘incredibly hardworking and very diligent’ Eleanor Hoare was promoted to partner in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Sharon Bennett; Ruth Bross


Other key lawyers:

Anna Wagstaff; Vicky Briam; Eleanor Hoare; Simon Lim; Jamie Gaw; Adam Witkover


Testimonials

‘Really hands on, and attentive. You really feel they are on your side. Tough but sensible.’

‘Sharon Bennett is wonderful. A real fighter, who cares about her clients, but keeps focused on what matters. Sensible, no-nonsense and forensic in her approach. Brilliantly responsive.’

‘Eleanor Hoare is incredibly hardworking and very diligent. She is kind and thoughtful and pushes hard for her client’s cause.’

‘The whole team is amazing – I would trust them with any of my friends or family.’

‘Vicky Briam is one of my favourite people to work with – so good with clients and so straightforward to deal with.’

‘The team is exceptional – they are all very talented and together offer a range of different skills.’

‘Sharon Bennett is one of the best family solicitors in the country. She has exceptional judgment and is admired by all in the profession.’

‘Ruth Bross is tenacious and fights harder than anyone for her clients.’

Burgess Mee

Praised for its ‘unwavering commitment to excellence‘, boutique firm Burgess Mee fields a team of experts across finance issues, child arrangements, modern families and wealth protection work. Peter Burgess, joint founder of the firm, combines a mediation practice, children work, and financial disputes expertise, while fellow co-founder Antonia Mee is praised for her ‘unparalleled’ knowledge in child relocation cases. ‘Exceptional partnerDavid Lillywhite, also a mediator, is a go-to for nuptial agreements. Natalie Sutherland heads up the firm’s modern family department, with an established practice in surrogacy and fertility law. Rachel Freeman joined the team in January 2024 from Kingsley Napley LLP.

Practice head(s):

Antonia Mee; Peter Burgess


Other key lawyers:

David Lillywhite; Natalie Sutherland; Kirsty Morris; Henrietta Thomas; Sarah Bunn; Rachel Freeman; Ffion Greenfield; Henry Dawson; Charlotte Ballard-Scott


Testimonials

‘Burgess Mee have an unwavering commitment to excellence in everything that they do. Brilliantly led, the team are market leaders from top to bottom. More than a match for anyone in the profession.’

‘Rachel Freeman was a true delight to work with. She’s so calm and competent and made me feel so empowered, strong and supported.’

‘Ffion Greenfield is a winning combination of being utterly personable and ruthlessly analytical. She is across every detail and really listens to your needs. And at the same time she is incredibly reassuring and experienced.’

‘David Lillywhite is an exceptional partner. He cares hugely about his clients and ensures they achieve the best possible outcomes.’

‘Kirsty Morris is that rare combination of being utterly calm and utterly focused. She is more than one step ahead in any litigation. A solicitor with a very bright future as a leader in her field. Fantastically clever and brilliant with clients.’

‘Natalie Sutherland is a fantastic family lawyer. Brilliant with clients and opponents alike. She just gets cases right from the start, giving clients the advice they need from the off.’

‘Peter Burgess is a brilliant lawyer and tactician with a keen eye for detail. He engenders a high level of trust in his clients which is perfectly deserved, particularly in financial remedy cases.’

‘Antonia Mee is the star of the firm. Her knowledge is unparalleled and her client management supreme. She is tactically adept and knows when to negotiate and when to contest an issue. Clients feel confident and safe with her on their side.’

Hanne & Co

Hanne & Co‘s longstanding reputation in public law children work is paired with experience of both private children matters, including abductions, and high-value financial disputes. Emma Baillie joined the team from TV Edwards Solicitors LLP in January 2024 to head up the firm’s finance and private law children work, with the childcare practice led by Michele Brown. Rokeya Dangor is a key member of the childcare team, focusing on non-accidental and fatal injury cases, and matters involving allegations of abuse. Elinor Feeny is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Emma Baillie; Michele Brown


Other key lawyers:

Susan Harlow; Elinor Feeny; Hazel Kent; Caroline Little; Anna Gowen; James Dunn; Rokeya Dangor; Tash Fairweather; Helen Mead


Testimonials

‘A great team that provide high quality advice in a caring and empathetic way.’

‘Emma Baillie is a fabulous lawyer! She provides the highest quality advice in a friendly and empathetic manner. She always goes the extra mile to ensure success! An established boutique firm with experienced solicitors of significant quality.’

‘Anna Gowen’s client care and detailed forensic analysis of issues and strategy is impressive. Working with her at court hearings and in preparation for trial, she is confident and clear with clients, and genuinely in their corner.’

‘The team are superb offerring support to find solutions. The right people are sourced to give you the right person with expertise is the necessary field. The team are very competent and go the extra mile. Time and attention spent on the details.’

‘Competent and conscientious. I felt completely supported and listened to. High standards are delivered with attention to details throughout the whole process. Professional yet warm, approachable and straightforward. Explained things to me thoroughly when I was unsure of some processes and formalities. I would certainly recommend Helen Mead. Having had contact with several other solicitors over the years, Helen definitely outshines them all. I am extremely grateful to have had her helping me with the court process. She is a fantastic and professional individual.’

‘Hanne and Co have a collaborative ethos with excellent solicitors, Its a small but perfectly formed team of heavy hitters who really go to extra lengths to support their clients and get them the best outcomes.’

‘Rokeya Dangor is wise and caring. She is excellent tactically and really considers the issues in a case and provide her clients with a tailored bespoke service.’

‘The family team at Hanne & Co are stellar. It is the people within this team which make them standout. My experience of Hanne & Co is as counsel instructed by them. Their cases are properly and carefully prepared. Their client engagement and care is clearly a top priority and obvious. Working with Hanne & Co is a pleasure. The team are professional, approachable and thorough from partner to trainee level.’

Work highlights


  • Acting for wife in rare and complex Part III MFPA 1984 case for financial relieffollowing foreign divorce that has attracted significant press interest.
  • Acting for applicant mother in complex High Court proceedings under the ChildAbduction and Custody Act 1985 in which a return order to Romania was sought.
  • Acting in a reported case for wife in case of missing £8m and husband’s forgery of bank statements. This case was reported due to order of adjourning capital claims but also due to HHJ Hess’s desire to highlight growing concern of judiciary of the falsifying of electronic documents in proceedings.

Howard Kennedy LLP

‘Modern in outlook‘ and ‘commercial in approach’, the Howard Kennedy LLP family team is ‘full of really smart, highly capable lawyers‘. According to clients, ‘you can’t get much better than’ team head Lois Langton, whose practice regularly involves international elements and clients from the sports sector. Nina Lake is ‘beyond brilliant‘ in both matrimonial and child disputes, while Katherine Res Pritchard is ‘a total star and a leading figure in the field‘ as a children law specialist with particular strength in international relocation. Iona Nicolson joined the team in September 2023 from Vardags.

Practice head(s):

Lois Langton


Other key lawyers:

Katherine Res Pritchard; Jessica Rush; Olalla Garcia-Arreciado; Emma Green; Nina Lake; Jessie Smith; Iona Nicolson


Testimonials

‘A fantastic family law team, modern in outlook, commercial in approach, full of really smart, highly capable lawyers.’

‘Katherine Res Pritchard is absolutely outstanding, an established name with true pedigree in children cases, particularly those with an international element. Katherine’s ability to offer an empathetic yet robust approach is second to none – she is a total star and a leading figure in the field.’

‘Nina Lake is beyond brilliant in terms of her intellect and how she deals with clients. Whether the case involves complex finances or vast wealth, it pays to have Nina on your side.’

‘Iona Nicolson is a stand-out junior who is destined for greatness, already well on the track to becoming a leader in the field, Iona is a highly talented lawyer with a knack for juggling multiple complex matters while doing them all to an exceptional standard.’

‘Howard Kennedy are a truly wonderful firm! They go above and beyond to support their clients whilst championing inclusivity and diversity within their team.’

‘Lois Langton is a stand out Partner and fantastic Head of the Family Team. Lois is regularly delivering the highest calibre of work, taking the lead on numerous challenging cases and seeing them through to great success. You can’t get much better than Lois when it comes to Family Law!’

‘Emma Green is immediately disarming in all the right ways – personable, astute and tenacious. Brimming with charm and wit, but with one hand always on the dagger just in case.’

‘Olalla Garcia-Arreciado has a bright future. She knows the minutiae inside-out and is an excellent strategist. ’

Irwin Mitchell

A large cohesive specialist family law team‘ operating nationwide, Irwin Mitchell‘s family department is ‘strong at all levels‘. National head of team Ros Bever is based in Manchester, while in London, Toby Hales is a key name. Claire Filer focuses on matters for high-net-worth clients, including internationally, alongside mediation work. Alongside Filer and Hales, Fran Hipperson and Carmel Brown round out the London-based team. Hipperson is ‘a fantastic lawyer with an eye for detail', while Brown provides ‘tactical, pragmatic and realistic’ advice in children matters.

Practice head(s):

Ros Bever; Toby Hales; Fran Hipperson; Claire Filer; Carmel Brown


Testimonials

‘A large cohesive specialist family law team which operates from several locations, providing a nationwide service to its clients.’

‘I have always found the team at Irwin Mitchell very sensible and reliable. They offer a practical and efficient service, with excellent preparation, organisation and client care.’

‘ A large team providing excellent service across the board. Each partner has niche expertise which can provide client’s with the absolute best in every area.’

‘Fran Hipperson is a star. She is exceptionally bright, a fantastic lawyer with an eye for detail and her judgment is spot on every time.’

‘Claire Filer is an incredibly calm, thoughtful lawyer who always achieves the very best a client could hope for. She is robust when required but always has a careful eye on achieving resolution without having to fight.’

‘Carmel Brown is one of the steeliest lawyers I have ever worked with; she is completely unflappable and her advice is tactical, pragmatic and realistic.’

‘Toby Hales continues to be a familiar and well respected face in the London family law world.’

‘Irwin Mitchell’s family team is strong at all levels, providing a high-quality of legal service. The team across various offices are consistent in their approach to client handling. The quality of the service they provide is high.’

Keystone Law

Keystone Law‘s range of family law specialists are noted for their capabilites in both financial and children’s law, working remotely through its consultancy model. Experts include Susan Apthorp, who is a go-to for international relocation matters and issues involving provisions for children with complex medical needs, and Claire O’Flinn, who regularly handles reputationally sensitive matters for high-profile clients. Carolyn Bottomley is dual-qualified in England and Wales as well as Australia, while Richard Collins has specialist experience advising on the impact of addiction, bipolar disorder and behaviour difficulties on divorces.

Other key lawyers:

Susan Apthorp; Richard Collins; Carolyn Bottomley; Rachel Lemon; Claire O’Flinn; Emma Harte; Carys Mason; Isobel Mundy; Richard Abrahams; Hannah Cornish; Terrence Trainor; Laura Brown; Grainne Fahy; Yasmin Khan-Gunns; Corinne Parke; Bethan Hill-Howells; Rahul Rajput; Jonathan Day


Testimonials

‘One of the significant strengths is their unwavering calmness and ability to neutralise very contentious issues. They have always remained fair and will seek out specialist opinions externally if they feel an area needs the opinion of others.’

‘Isobel Mundy is a well respected solicitor in both children and finance matters and is a pleasure to work with. She works well with other solicitors in a collaborative and sensible way.’

‘Carolyn Bottomley has such a depth and breadth of knowledge on the family law areas of my case and has navigated the whole process to achieve the best outcome for me.’

‘Corinne Parke is very capable legally and warm and approachable with clients.’

‘Bethan Hill-Howells is dedicated to her clients, sensible and practical and willing to go the extra mile.’

‘Bethan Hill-Howells is definitely one to watch. She is an incredibly bright and razor sharp lawyer with a very bright career ahead of her.’

‘Roopa Ahluwalia stands out for her extensive experience, tactical acumen, and commitment to client care. Her ability to blend robust legal advice with empathy sets her apart from many others. Ahluwalia’s approach to minimising court interventions, unless absolutely necessary, and her skills in negotiation and mediation are particularly valued. Her dedication to achieving the best outcomes for her clients, paired with her expertise in a wide range of family law matters, sets her apart from competitors.’

Miles & Partners LLP

The ‘extremely knowledgeable and professional’ family team at Miles & Partners LLP is headed up by Kate Hammond and Ritu Sood; both are recommended for their work in care proceedings alongside private law children work. Hammond is also experienced in children matters involving local authorities, and Sood often advises guardians. Harriet Brame handles a range of complex children cases, including those involving allegations of non-accidental injury, while Linda Pope is ‘an excellent strategist’ and a go-to for matrimonial finance matters. Gemma Hodder is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Kate Hammond; Ritu Sood


Other key lawyers:

Harriet Brame; Linda Pope; Lorraine Green; Mary Richardson; Dee Aktar; Gemma Hodder


Testimonials

‘The family team at Miles and Partners is extremely knowledgeable and professional.’

‘Miles and Partners is a fantastic firm with great solicitors at all levels including their trainees. They are a collaborative and intelligent group of solicitors who offer great experience and a high level of service.’

‘Lorraine Green is fantastic. Hard working and with an eye to detail she gets to the heart of the problem quickly with her good sense and judgment. She is liked and trusted by her clients.’

‘Miles and Partners are the “Go To Firm” for private law and financial family disputes. They have a wide breadth of experience and expertise. This is a firm that works with passion and empathy and it shows in the positive experience for their clients.’

‘Linda Pope is a formidable partner in financial disputes. Her written work is second to none. Linda is an excellent strategist and her extensive experience allows her to keep a laser eye focus on the likely outcomes that the court will order.’

‘The team are always quick to respond to queries and provide holistic advice to their clients such as what other personal matters may need addressing in addition to the divorce.’

‘This team is dedicated to clients and to achieving just outcomes, with an attention to detail that is unmatched by other firms.’

‘Mary Richardson is outstanding, an absolute stand out. Mary is an absolute joy to work with; she is attentive, responsive, flexible, thoughtful and wickedly intelligent.’

Simons Muirhead Burton

With ‘quality at all levels and taking a personal yet professional approach to all its cases‘, the family team at Simons Muirhead Burton is led by Jane McDonagh, ‘a brilliant family lawyer‘ who often works with business owners, individuals in the entertainment industry, and internationally, with particular experience in the Middle East. Tom Farley-Hills is ‘an outstanding lawyer‘ with notable experience advising on nuptial agreements and financial disputes, often with offshore elements, while Sarah Harding is praised as ‘a standout performer‘ with specialist expertise regarding intervenor disputes and child arrangement disputes.

Practice head(s):

Jane McDonagh


Other key lawyers:

Tom Farley-Hills; Tessa Bray; Sarah Harding


Testimonials

‘Jane McDonagh, the head of the team is excellent. She is a brilliant family lawyer who is a delight to have on the other side. She takes the heat out of even the most difficult cases, has no ego and is prepared to have sensible discussions in order to find a way forward.’

‘The team is very well resourced for all financial remedy work, from minimal assets to ultra high net worth cases.’

‘Tom Farley-Hills is an outstanding lawyer with an incredible caseload of UHNW clients – surprising for a relatively junior partner but he is more than equal to the job. On top of every detail and incredibly responsive.’

‘Simons Muirhead Burton are top class! They have quality at all levels and provide a personal yet professional approach to all their cases.’

‘Sarah Harding is a standout performer. She works tirelessly for her clients offering the very best of legal advice. Her empathy towards clients is remarkable and she is a tactical genius!’

‘Tessa Bray is superb. Loved by clients, and tough but fair – a complete star.’

‘Jane McDonagh is savvy and commercial, yet warm and caring – an excellent all round lawyer.’

‘Sarah Harding is one to watch for the future – a real force.’

TV Edwards Solicitors LLP

TV Edwards Solicitors LLP fields ‘a wide team offering expertise in all areas of family law‘, noted for its public law children practice alongside strength in high-value matrimonial finance. Paul Read co-heads the team, often dealing with complicated business and international assets in divorces. Children law specialist Sarah Inchley co-heads the team with Read, with particular strength in international children law. Anest Mathias is ‘a star‘ in surrogacy and fertility matters. Emma Baillie departed the team in December 2023 to Hanne & Co, and Hannah Perry moved to Goodman Ray in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Paul Read; Sarah Inchley


Other key lawyers:

Anest Mathias; Deborah Piccos; Lindsay Blake; Claire Longland


Testimonials

‘Sarah Inchley is a great international family lawyer who brings tons of compassion, hard work, and dedication to her cases. She is never fazed and able to work extremely effectively under pressure.’

‘Paul Read has brilliant client care skills. He is hardworking and provides excellent advice. He will always strive to achieve the best results for his clients.’

‘Lindsay Blake is a stand out solicitor at this firm. She provides strong and sound advice to clients and is always available to talk about cases and make progress.’

‘Claire Longland is an excellent lawyer; she has a firm grasp of the detail in even the most voluminous cases and provides an exceptional service to her clients. Claire ensures that no aspect of a case is overlooked or minimised and works incredibly well in a team.’

‘Anest Mathias is a star of their family team. She has a well regarded niche in declaration of parentage cases following sperm donation. Her knowledge of this area of the HFEA is unparalleled. ’

‘TV Edwards has a wide team offering expertise in all areas of family law. They are particularly noted for their experience in complex child protection cases, representing both parents and children.’

‘Deborah Piccos is exceptional. Her unique blend of unsurpassed knowledge and approachable manner make her a formidable advocate and opponent. She is a truly wonderful children’s lawyer.’

‘TV Edwards has expertise in every aspect of family law. Their solicitors are committed to their clients and know their cases inside and out.’

Vaitilingam Kay

Vaitilingam Kay is ‘an undeniably exceptional law firm‘, led and co-founded by Joe Vaitilingam and Anne Kay. As ‘one of the very best and most intelligent lawyers in London’, Vaitilingam is a go-to for work relating to nuptial agreements and trust assets. Kay is ‘absolutely second-to-none‘ in both complex children and financial matters, with additional mediation expertise. The firm has standout experience in cases involving domestic abuse, a key area of expertise for Sara Wychrij, and the ‘magnificentKate Barnett has particular strength in jurisdictional disputes.

Practice head(s):

Joe Vaitilingam; Anne Kay


Other key lawyers:

Sara Wychrij; Kathryn Cassells; Thomas Pavey; Kate Barnett; Thomas Duggins


Testimonials

‘Vaitilingam Kay is an undeniably exceptional law firm. The struggles of my complex divorce were handled with great professionalism alongside precise and understandable legal guidance.’

‘Joe Vaitilingam and Kate Barnett, both partners who did exceptional work regarding my highly complex case, in other words my dream team. They made an extremely draining and difficult time seem much easier and smoother than I would have anticipated.’

‘The firm is one of the very best of London’s boutique law firms. I could not rate this firm highly enough. An amazing team who do absolutely everything they can to ensure the very best outcomes for their clients.’

‘Joe Vaitilingam is one of the very best and most intelligent lawyers in London. He is enormously intelligent and famously nice. His judgement is legendary.’

‘Kate Barnett is a magnificent solicitor. She is super intelligent and confident and her clients always have 100% confidence in her. She is a ferocious negotiator and seriously good litigator. She writes letters which literally win cases.’

‘Thomas Duggins is a very bright man with an charming personality. He brings a breath of realistic fresh air to his cases and his clients adore him for it.’

‘Vaitilingam Kay boasts a top-flight team, with the efficiency of a boutique firm. Its outstanding reputation is well deserved. VK are at the top of their game. ’

‘Anne Kay is excellent. Absolutely second-to-none.’

Weightmans LLP

Weightmans LLP‘s London family team offers ‘a boutique service from a large full-service firm’, headed up by Manchester-based Emma Collins. Caroline Penfold in the London team has a ‘wealth of experience’ in nuptial agreements, financial disputes, and private children matters. The ‘client-focused and committedCarina Smith is particularly experienced in cohabitation agreements and financial relief for unmarried parents, while Robert Emmett pairs ‘an eye for detail and accountancy brain‘ to tackle high-value, often international, disputes. Lottie Tyler offers mediation expertise alongside other methods of non-court dispute resolution.

Practice head(s):

Emma Collins


Other key lawyers:

Caroline Penfold; Carina Smith; Robert Emmett; Lucy Raho-Jeavons; Lottie Tyler


Testimonials

‘Robert Emmett has an eye for detail and accountancy brain which provides a formidable combination on behalf of any client. Works extremely hard to bring about the best result, but is always willing to settle where practicable.’

‘Caroline Penfold is loved by clients, sensible, pragmatic, and tough when necessary. She has a wealth of experience with all types of cases, so is not fazed by the difficult ones.’

‘Highly specialised family law team with a breadth of experience.’

‘Carina Smith is an excellent and hardworking solicitor who always gets the detail and nuance of every case. Her correspondence is measured but firm and her professional colleagues are in awe of her. I would recommend her to any friends of mine getting divorced.’

Carina Smith is very client-focused and committed. She has a good-humoured lightness of touch that helps keep even heated cases on an even keel. Also good with detail and patient. Highly recommended.’

‘Caroline Penfold is a very sound and highly experienced partner. Excellent at managing her client’s expectations. Also robust when appropriate. A pleasure to work with.’

‘A large firm but with a London family team which very much retains its own identity. Highly competent personnel offering a boutique service from a large full service firm.’

‘Robert Emmett is extremely competent and a pleasure to work with.’

Burges Salmon LLP

The ‘large and talented family law team’ of ‘first-rate lawyers’ at Burges Salmon LLP in London sits alongside its established team in Bristol, led by ‘force of natureSarah Hoskinson. Hoskinson handles complex financial disputes and nuptial agreements, including internationally, and is noted for her ‘unsurpassed’ expertise regarding pensions in divorces. ‘Exceptional lawyerRichard Handel specialises in advising high and ultra-high-net-worth individuals on divorce and child relocation matters.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Hoskinson


Other key lawyers:

Richard Handel; Hannah Petherick; Alison Hawes; Hebe Thorne; Michael Finnegan


Testimonials

‘The partners are first-rate lawyers, complemented by particularly talented juniors.’

‘Richard Handel is one of the best black-letter lawyers in the solicitors’ profession. His understanding of the authorities and international issues is at the level that one might expect from a top barrister. He also has exceptional attention to detail, but is able to take an overview of a case.’

‘Richard Handel is an exceptional lawyer. He is a pleasure to deal with and brings pragmatism and common sense to cases. It is clear that he protects his clients’ interests but he is sensible and commercial with it. I would not hesitate to recommend him.’

‘Burges Salmon have a large and talented family law team including some stellar individuals.’

‘Sarah Hoskinson is a force of nature. Utterly committed and fiercely intelligent. Her knowledge of pensions is unsurpassed in the industry. She will, fight hard for her clients but is always a pleasure to work with.’

‘Real heavy hitters in the South West of England who also bridge the gap into London. There is strength in depth in the team, and they benefit from being part of a full service law firm and so are able to tap into advice in other areas too.’

‘Sarah Hoskinson is the standout lawyer in the team. She has a really great practice and is a real rainmaker.’

‘Burges Salmon is a truly outstanding family law team with an increasing presence in central London. Their work is top drawer, and they conduct their cases in a classy manner. A star act.’

Burke Niazi Solicitors & Advocates

The family team at Burke Niazi Solicitors & Advocates has longstanding experience representing vulnerable clients, often handling care proceedings, and is able to assist clients in a range of languages. Team head David Marcus specialises in care and financial relief proceedings, including acting for children’s guardians. Matters impacted by mental health concerns, domestic abuse, and substance misuse are all areas of experience for the team.

Practice head(s):

David Marcus


Other key lawyers:

Abbie Huxley; Eram Rashid-Khan; Lina Chauhan


Camilla Baldwin

Family law boutique Camilla Baldwin is ‘brimming with expertise and experience to the point it almost seems unfair on opponents‘. Founder and head Camilla Baldwin ‘is one of the giants of family law‘, advising high and ultra-high-net-worth clients. Louise Walker joined the team from Harrison Clark Rickerbys in August 2023; she ‘brings a wealth of experience‘ acting for high-profile clients and those with generational wealth. Luned Rees Williams is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Camilla Baldwin


Other key lawyers:

Luned Rees Williams; Louise Walker; Molly Snowe


Testimonials

‘Camilla Baldwin is one of the giants of family law. Her reputation as a fighter goes before her. She is a great defender of the underdog and often surprises them with great results.’

‘Camilla Baldwin is absolutely standout and her reputation in this area of law is well deserved. From what I have seen over the last few years she has an ability to put even the most nervous client at ease and her warmth and passion for their case is so obvious. She is utterly dedicated to her work and it shows. Put simply she is a market leader and is excellent.’

‘Molly Snowe is simply excellent with clients and a real force of nature. She is operating well above her year of qualification and is a future star in the making.’

‘Louise Walker is relatively new to the team and brings a wealth of experience with her. She is a joy to work with, pragmatic, smart and industrious.’

‘The team are brimming with expertise and experience to the point it almost seems unfair on opponents. Forward planning combined with legal nous and a willingness to act hard and fast make this firm stand out.’

‘This boutique practice specialises in Family Law and each lawyer has a great pedigree. Excellent client and case management skills allied with great strategic awareness makes this a go to firm.’

‘Camilla Baldwin has seen and done it all and carries the reputation to match.’

‘Louise Walker is a forensic lawyer that cares deeply about her work. An excellent lawyer.’

Clintons

The ‘dynamic‘ family team at Clintons is ‘streamlined and efficient’, often supporting clients in the sport and entertainment industries. Daniel Chalmers is a ‘future leader of the profession‘, specialising in matrimonial finance matters including multi-jurisdictional and Schedule 1 Children Act matters. As ‘one of the best of the best‘, Liz Vernon regularly advises on nuptial agreements and represents clients involved in mediation, arbitration, and non-court dispute resolution more widely.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Chalmers


Other key lawyers:

Liz Vernon


Testimonials

‘Liz Vernon is really outstanding. She is talented, diligent, kind and funny. Clients love her and she gets fantastic results.’

‘Clintons has a dynamic team. It is streamlined and efficient. It has always had a fresher approach than the other biggest names in the field.’

‘Liz Vernon is one of the best of the best. She has fantastic strategic oversight, while maintaining real pragmatism. I think clients (rightly) are assured, confident, and at ease with Liz.’

‘Clintons are a team with fantastic pedigree and a bright future, with a new generation of fantastic family lawyers coming to the fore. Tough, commercial, talented and client focused, they are a team to be reckoned with.’

‘Daniel Chalmers is a match for the best in the profession, successfully running serious and heavy cases. Liked and respected by his peers for good reason, he is one of the future leaders of the profession.’

‘Clintons are a well resourced firm in terms of client care, and in terms of the breadth of wider private client expertise and media expertise within the firm. They are able to offer a holistic and sophisticated service in private and international children matters. There has always been a high level of intra-team co-working which provides clients with depth of service.’

‘Daniel Chalmers is very personable and knowledgeable. He is able to establish client’s confidence in his professional advice and put them at ease, which is a powerful combination.’

‘Clintons has a small but dynamic team, led by up-and-coming partner Daniel Chalmers. The team is particularly strong in cases representing celebrities, HNWs, and others in the public-eye.’

Collyer Bristow LLP

Collyer Bristow LLP‘s ‘first-rate‘ family law offering focuses on high-value matrimonial finance matters, including nuptial agreements, and private law children disputes. It is experienced in culturally complex matters involving the Jewish, Muslim, Catholic and Greek Orthodox faiths. Team head Toby Yerburgh is a ‘first-class tactician’ with notable experience in international matters. For mediation, Philippa Dolan is a go-to, and Tanya Roberts is recommended for complex children matters.

Practice head(s):

Toby Yerburgh


Other key lawyers:

Tanya Roberts; Michael Drake; Philippa Dolan; Laura Burrows; Bethany Wood; Christina Pippas; Charmaine Hast


Testimonials

‘Tanya Roberts is an outstanding and very experienced family lawyer, equally at home with complex financial work and children work.’

‘Collyer Bristow are a first-rate family law team. Headed expertly by Toby Yerburgh, the team provides excellent, strategically astute and pragmatic advice to clients engaged in financial disputes or those involving the arrangements for children following a separation.’

‘Collyer Bristow have a very good team, perfectly set up to handle any case with efficiency and expertise.’

‘Christina Pippas is the perfect combination of bright, charming and tactically astute. She is efficient and organised, and clients love her.’

‘Philippa Dolan is highly experienced and seems unflappable in the face of pressure. She is very measured and gives sensible and proportionate advice. She is excellent at managing the client’s expectations while being extremely sympathetic and supportive.’

‘Tanya Roberts is one of the most experienced children lawyers currently practising. She has first-class judgment, works unbelievably hard for her clients, and is a skilled tactician. She has a depth of experience in the most complex and difficult children and money work, and nothing fazes her.’

‘Toby Yerburgh is a first-class tactician. Very well versed in the complexities of business structures, trusts, offshore assets and able to provide advice that is detailed and commercially astute. Excellent with clients and a robust negotiator.’

‘Laura Burrows is extremely conscientious, diligent and hardworking with an excellent attention to detail. Clients adore her and she gives excellent, pragmatic advice. Someone I frequently recommend to friends involved in their own family law disputes.’

Duncan Lewis Solicitors

A go-to firm‘ for family law matters, Duncan Lewis Solicitors is experienced in both public and private children matters, with a specialism in care proceedings and emergency safeguarding situations. The firm's autism and ADHD specialist unit is particular noted, led by Alia Lewis and supporting neurodivergent children and families. The practice is also recognised for its work with victims of domestic violence, substance abuse, and FGM cases. The team established a new mediation offering in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Adeeba Naseem; Alia Lewis; Emine Mehmet; Forida Hakim; Kathy Walker; Laila Bhunnoo; Sophie Fretten; Mandeep Kaur Benning; Emily Wright


Other key lawyers:

Helen Newman; Fauzia Mumani; Sheena Vadher


Testimonials

‘Duncan Lewis is always a go-to firm for my team and we will happily go to them to instruct on behalf of children. There is a consistency of practice across the whole team. I have been impressed working with the firm.’

‘Emine Mehmet is always professional, she is child focused and works well with all age groups. Ms Mehmet is empathetic and has a holistic view when working with children and their families. She works meticulously and takes pride in work she does. I have observed her to go the extra mile on all the cases I have worked with her on.’

‘The team at Duncan Lewis are outstanding. They are committed, hardworking, very responsive and provide an excellent standard of advice and representation. Duncan Lewis has developed a specialist team to meet the needs of neurodivergent children and families and promote best practice in relation to neurodivergence in the family justice system.’

‘Alia Lewis is an outstanding solicitor. Alia combines passion and dedication with excellent advocacy and well thought out advice.’

‘Fauzia Mumani is an excellent solicitor. She is hardworking, insightful and always on top of every detail of her cases. She is a powerful advocate and gives clear, user friendly advice.’

‘Sheena Vadher is a brilliant solicitor. She is calm and measured, an excellent advocate and she always gives clear and insightful advice.’

‘An excellent firm with considerable strength in family law. The team is extremely diverse. They are responsive to enquiries. All of the members of the team are knowledgeable about the law and are passionate about representing their clients.’

‘Sophie Fretten is an exceptional lawyer. She effectively utilises her considerable experience to obtain the best outcome for her clients. Many of her clients are extremely vulnerable individuals who are in challenging circumstances. She sensitively helps them navigate the court process with great care and skill.

Hamblin Family Law LLP

Hamblin Family Law LLP, which launched in May 2023, is ‘fast becoming a go-to firm given its fresh approach‘. Founder and head Georgina Hamblin, former head of family at Vardags, is ‘superbly accomplished’ in high-value, multi-jurisdictional divorce cases. The team gained Hannah Budd from legacy firm Bloom Budd, along with Charlotte Lee from Vardags and Tim Carpenter from Stewarts Law LLP, in January 2024, followed in March by Antonia Barker, also from Vardags. The practice handles the full range of family matters, including financial disputes relating to divorce, cohabitation and nuptial agreements, and jurisdictional disputes.

Practice head(s):

Georgina Hamblin


Other key lawyers:

Hannah Budd; Antonia Barker; Charlotte Lee; Tim Carpenter


Testimonials

‘This is a newly established boutique firm, with star individual Georgina Hamlin leading the way. She offers a sensitive and bespoke service to high net worth individuals. She is a phenomenal litigator, but equally confident in non-court dispute resolution. The firm has established associates and the whole team is fantastic to work for.’

‘Charlotte Lee is an associate who does work many years above her call level. She is hard working with a clear eye for detail. Clients love her.’

‘This is fast becoming a go-to firm given its fresh approach to family law and the pedigree of its team.’

‘Georgina Hamblin is unique. She is a wonderful personality and is one of the most able family solicitors currently working. Her ability and approach is making Hamblin Family Law one of the go-to smaller firms. She is incredible.’

‘Georgina Hamblin is an extremely talented lawyer who will go very far with her firm. She has already had brilliant success with her new firm which is flying. This is unsurprising because she is superbly accomplished. Clients love her. She is pragmatic and driven and, ultimately, gets them striking results.’

‘Tim Carpenter was an excellent hire. He is a fantastic lawyer who is diligent and strategic – the perfect adjutant to the general, Georgina Hamblin. Client’s really love him and that is apparent the moment you meet with him. He immediately puts them at ease and they trust him implicitly, knowing, rightly, that they are in the safest of hands.’

‘Tim Carpenter is one to watch. He is brilliant with clients, kind and compassionate. He has a great nose for a case and a fantastic international network.’

‘Antonia Barker is a brilliant litigator and nothing gets past her.’

JMW Solicitors LLP

With ‘a powerhouse of a team’, JMW Solicitors LLP‘s London family offering expands on its Manchester-based strength, headed up by Michael Rowlands. ‘One of the best in the business’, Rowlands supports clients in the Gulf States, Saudi Arabia, and Monaco from London, while Philip Cooper is a ‘stand-out’ for nuptial agreements. Clients from the ex-patriate Middle East community seek out Mark Gilmartin, who also heads up the modern families team, which handles surrogacy and adoption issues.

Practice head(s):

Michael Rowlands


Other key lawyers:

Philip Cooper; Lisa Greggains; Mark Gilmartin; Eleanor Cawthra; Tracey Rodford


Testimonials

‘The team at JMW are hugely client focused. They offer a great service, with clients assured in the knowledge that their case is being fought hard.’

‘A powerhouse of a team that is committed to drive positive change through the law.’

‘One of the dominant firms in Manchester and the North-West, JMW have in recent years made their presence felt in the London market. The firm is packed with strong litigators.’

‘Excellent litigators. Michael Rowlands is a champion for his clients, and one of the best in the business. His case load is based on international work (with a particular, but not sole, emphasis on the Middle East) and big money divorce cases.’

‘Eleanor Cawthra is an exceptionally capable lawyer, and additionally one of the hardest working associates around.’

‘Philip Cooper is a stand-out partner. Polite, robust, sensible, commercially astute and an all-round delight to deal with. We have recently worked on a number of nuptial agreements together and have always managed to reach agreements for our respective clients in a low-key way, particularly important in this area.’

‘Great team headed by Michael Rowlands who has a huge international practice. Good depth within the team at all different levels of experience which is helpful for clients. It also benefits from having regional offices too.’

‘I have always found Philip Cooper to have great attention to detail, sound judgement and an eye for the most pragmatic and sensible outcome.’

Ketley Miller Joels Ltd

Boutique firm Ketley Miller Joels Ltd, which is ‘a small but expert firm which always goes the extra mile for clients‘, is headed up by dual-qualified Anglo-Australian lawyer Clayton Miller, who is particularly adept at cases involving trusts and complex questions of jurisdiction. Margaret Kelly-Edwards, also Anglo-Australian trained, is both a mediator and arbitrator. The team has notable experience in child abduction and relocation matters, and international nuptial agreements. For cohabitation disputes, Sarah Basso is a key name.

Practice head(s):

Clayton Miller


Other key lawyers:

Margaret Kelly-Edwards; Sarah Basso; Rachel Roberts; Elizabeth Simos; Ahsan Mian


Testimonials

‘A small but expert firm which always goes the extra mile for clients.’

‘Ahsan Mian’s attention to detail is unrivalled. He knows each case inside-out and prepares a case superbly. An expert negotiator out of court, but an unflinching litigator if necessary.

‘Boutique, personalised team, with excellent client care and legal acumen.’

‘Clayton Miller has bags of experience. Extremely personable and knowledgeable. Great to work with as he is very sensible and pragmatic.’

‘Elizabeth Simos is an outstanding professional. She stays very calm under pressure and all of the advice she gave me benefits the outcome of my case, without a shadow of a doubt.’

‘The practice as a whole worked extremely efficiently. I noticed that Ketley Miller Joels went out of their way, it appeared to me, to explain things exceptionally well, to be transparent, and helpful. This firm seemed to me to work together very much as a team and I would highly recommend it.’

‘I was represented by Margaret Kelly-Edwards and cannot recommend her highly enough. Her exceptional expertise, professionalism, astute understanding of my case together with her kindness and consideration towards me made my case so much easier to cope with than it otherwise would have been – I have no doubt about that. I honestly do not think I could have coped without these attributes that Margaret has in abundance.’

‘A real joined up approach, all members know what is going on and supported the process.’

Ribet Myles

Ribet Myles is ‘going from strength to strength‘, fielding ‘an incredibly formidable team’ headed up by co-founders Julian Ribet and Alistair Myles. Myles is ‘tenacious‘ in complex financial disputes, which is also an area of strength for Ribet, who is an arbitrator, mediator and ‘ruthless litigator’. Lois Rogers is a go-to for ultra-high-net-worth clients, while Dom Christophersis the go-to guy for musicians‘, leveraging his experience in the music industry. The team gained Lucy Hitchen from Charles Russell Speechlys LLP and Rebecca Pierce from Vardags in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Julian Ribet; Alistair Myles; Laura Geraghty; Lois Rogers


Other key lawyers:

Dom Christophers; Lucy Hitchen; Rebecca Pierce


Testimonials

‘Ribet Myles have become a huge name in the family law world with good reason. They have a fantastic team from top to bottom, and offer a great client service.’

‘Julian Ribet is one of the stars at the helm of the team. He is a ruthless litigator, unafraid of the technical.’

‘Alistair Myles is tenacious in litigation but offers a calming presence for clients. I have recommended him more times than I can count.’

Russells Solicitors

Louise Barretto heads up the family team at Russells Solicitors, regularly acting for high-profile clients in the media industry and the arts more broadly. Barretto’s particular expertise lies in cases involving narcissistic behaviour and coercive control, and connected parental alienation. Carol Ellinas is ‘a star to have in your corner‘, and David Hodgson‘s ‘legal knowledge is second to none‘. The team is also noted for its work advising on nuptial agreements for same-sex couples.

Practice head(s):

Louise Barretto


Other key lawyers:

Carol Ellinas; David Hodgson; Melissa Hutter


Testimonials

‘Carol Ellinas has a wealth of experience, great instincts and no-nonsense approach – a star to have in your corner.’

‘The team has extensive experience in the field and are particularly good at client management – managing expectations in particular and with difficult clients.’

‘David Hodgson is good humoured, down to earth and always searching for a practical solution. David’s legal knowledge is second to none. It is a pleasure to have David on a case.’

‘Louise Barretto is an excellent solicitor who is very professional, compassionate and clear in her approach.’

‘Carol Ellinas and her team were very empathetic, always on top of things that were relevant and important and were totally on point when instructing the correct barrister to deal with matters at court.’

‘Louise Barretto is amazing, caring, honest and fully versed in narcissistic behaviours. She is brave when you cannot be. She is very dedicated, knowledgeable and innovative. An amazing human being.’

‘Melissa Hutter is a caring and smart new solicitor but works as if she has a lot of experience. She is calm and confident and a great support in court.’

‘David Hodgson is very experienced and knowledgeable and I always have the utmost confidence in his advice. Just as importantly, he is very empathetic and always understands my point of view and experience. I would not hesitate to recommend him.’

RWK Goodman

‘A real top-end firm in the family law market‘, RWK Goodman‘s London team has grown with the addition of Kim Lehal from Brethertons LLP in September 2023, and Keeley Lengthorn from Taylor Rose in June 2024. Lehal now heads up the international children department, with Lengthorn at the helm of the public law children team. Simon Bassett leads the team nationally from Oxford, while Natalie Lemonides heads up the London international divorce and finance team.

Practice head(s):

Simon Bassett; Kim Lehal; Natalie Lemonides


Other key lawyers:

Keeley Lengthorn


Testimonials

‘Natalie Lemonides is passionate, hard working and will always go the extra mile for any client.’

‘A real top-end firm in the Family Law market. A young, vibrant, effective and ambitious team that are already mixing it with the more established firms and individuals in Family Law.’

‘Simon Bassett leads the team by example. He has huge experience of UHNW cases and brings more to a case than most.’

‘Natalie Lemonides is a brilliant lawyer that always gets the best for her clients.’

‘What Kim Lehal doesn’t know about International Child Law isn’t worth knowing. She will be the market leader in this field before long.’

‘Natalie Lemonides has been able to fight unceasingly for what is best for me and my children, listening to my wishes and adapting to last minute changes. Her human side can’t go unnoticed.’

‘Natalie Lemonidas is a star. I have known Natalie for many years and she is empathetic and cares for her clients deeply. She is confident and self assured, a hard worker, very bright and diligent. It has been a joy to see her flourish and develop.’

‘The team are strong and have a good span of experience between them.’

Work highlights


  • Acted for the Respondent fathers in the Court of Appeal in the first reported decision to consider the matter of consent pursuant to s54(6) of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008.
  • Represented the Applicant in high-profile Article 21 rights of access Hague Convention 1980 child abduction proceedings, which dealt with the key issue of reporting restrictions and the publication of a fact-finding judgment.
  • Successfully represented the Wife in a multijurisdictional case involving issues of coercive control.

Seddons

The ‘wonderful’ family team at Seddons offers ‘a boutique service’ dealing with ‘large-scale litigation‘. ‘Immensely experienced’ team head Neil Russell is a go-to for divorce cases, nuptial agreements, and cohabitation matters. The ‘superbCatherine Hancock joined the team in September 2023 from legacy firm Axiom DWFM; she is a mediator with notable experience in complex children law matters. In January 2024, David Thompson moved over from JMW Solicitors LLP, and Kate Ryan joined the team from IBB Law in February 2024.

Practice head(s):

Neil Russell


Other key lawyers:

Catherine Hancock; David Thompson; Kate Ryan; Victoria Spencer


Testimonials

‘Catherine Hancock is a consummate professional and has vast experience. She is a gem and approachable and a rare find. She is extremely knowledgeable. She is the opposite of a cold, brash lawyer and I would recommend her highly to any of my colleagues.’

‘Neil Russell is immensely experienced and brings a commercial wisdom to cases as well as excellent legal acumen. He has a well deserved following and builds strong relationships with his clients.’

‘Seddons provide a high quality service to both lay and professional clients.’

‘Seddons are a wonderful team. They offer a boutique service but often deal with large scale litigation.’

‘There is a real focus on always ensuring matters are resolved outside of court where possible and they have real strength in their ability to resolve matters through alternative dispute resolution.’

‘Catherine Hancock is superb. There is no detail left out and no stone left unturned. She is hugely thorough and really cares about her clients and her cases.’

‘Seddons provide practical, sensible advice, delivered in a compassionate way.’

‘Victoria Spencer is an excellent solicitor who is always meticulously prepared. She routinely demonstrates excellent judgment and gives clear, sensible advice.’

Sinclair Gibson LLP

Sinclair Gibson LLP‘s family department combines the ‘advantages of a specialist boutique firm‘ with ‘the advantage of being part of a larger firm offering useful, cross-over expertise’. Kathryn Peat co-heads the team, and stands out for her ‘experience and judgment‘ practicing across children and finance matters as both a lawyer and arbitrator. Co-head James Copson ‘is the go-to lawyer for complicated cases‘ involving international elements and pensions advice.

Practice head(s):

Kathryn Peat; James Copson


Other key lawyers:

Xanthy Papageorgiou; Darren Hark


Testimonials

‘Every person involved at Sinclair Gibson is extremely polite, efficient, prompt and knowledgeable in their individual field.’

‘Kathryn Peate is a consummate and very experienced professional who I would describe as a ‘legal family law rock’ perfect for clients wanting a kind, firm and wise family lawyer.’

‘James Copson is one of the best technical lawyers in the profession. He can turn his hand to any sort of case which comes his way.’

‘Xanthy Papageorgiou is an excellent technical lawyer. Superb on the detail, she identifies issues swiftly and comes up with creative solutions. She is a great team player.’

‘Kathryn Peat is intelligent, tough and has “street smarts”. She is extremely hard-working and has the ability to focus on what is important. She knows when to be forceful and when to be subtle.’

‘The team offer many of the advantages of a specialist boutique firm, in terms of personal client care and availability, with the advantage of being part of a larger firm offering useful, cross-over expertise.’

‘Kathryn Peat stands out for the experience and judgment she brings to all her cases. She listens carefully to her client’s needs before guiding them in the right direction.’

‘James Copson is the go-to lawyer for complicated cases. A world expert on tax and the intricacies of cross-border cases involving finances and children. He has a formidable mind.’

Wilson Solicitors LLP

A fantastic law firm‘ which is particularly noted for its ‘ability to deal with more complex and vulnerable clients’, Wilson Solicitors LLP’s family team is headed up by ‘standout solicitor’ Aysen Soyer. The group's work with vulnerable clients includes representing clients with severe mental health or learning difficulties; Patricia Beckett is particularly recommended for this work. Amna Khaliq handles international child abduction matters, and Baljit Bains specialises in both private and public children law applications.

Practice head(s):

Aysen Soyer


Other key lawyers:

Patricia Beckett; Amna Khaliq; Baljit Bains; Felicity Jones; Ian Whitbread; Harry Clayton; Sarah Edwards


Testimonials

‘Wilson Solicitors LLP is a fantastic law firm. They are especially notable for ability to deal with more complex and vulnerable clients, and have an unparalleled knowledge of cultural issues that can arise in family law dynamics.’

‘Aysen Soyer is a standout solicitor. She is very client-focused without losing sight of what the realistic outcomes are for her clients.’

‘Baljit Bains is an excellent solicitor. She is always very well-prepared for her cases and is a good court advocate as well as litigator.’

‘Sarah Edwards is amongst the very best of children law solicitors . Her attention to detail is second to none. Her efficiency and understanding of the right strategy in complex matters is extremely impressive.’

‘I cannot praise Patricia Beckett enough for her commitment, passion and excellent client care skills. A true powerhouse partner in family law.’

‘Wilsons has established a strong reputation in the field of international family law. It has a stellar team working in this area. They are all super efficient, hard-working and know how to deal with the complexities of the most difficult cases.’

‘Amna Khaliq particularly stands out. She is extremely impressive, very smart and an excellent tactician. She is a real expert in the field and a go-to lawyer in international children work.’

‘Harry Clayton is extremely detail-oriented and always has a superb understanding of the issues in any given case.’

Work highlights


  • Advised a mother in complex care proceedings, including on an appeal to the court of appeal regarding the removal of the children to foster care.
  • Advised a mother in care proceedings where the issues relate to drug use, domestic abuse, and learning difficulties.

Allard Bailey Family Law

A unique London boutique, with quality practitioners’, Allard Bailey Family Law is co-headed by founders Louise Allard and Sabrina Bailey. Allard, who is ‘clever and pragmatic‘, often handles financial disputes involving international elements and company assets, while Bailey has particular experience in children matters such as international relocations. Louise Poulton is ‘a star individual‘, taking on complex matters across high-net-worth financial relief and private children law.

Practice head(s):

Louise Allard; Sabrina Bailey


Other key lawyers:

Louise Poulton; Jennifer Granby; Siobhan Lomasney


Testimonials

‘A unique London boutique, with quality practitioners.’

‘Louise Poulton is a star individual. She is empathetic and compassionate with clients, but forensic, knowledgeable and tactical: everything you could ever want in a family lawyer all rolled into one. She is a joy to work with and always delivers the very best result for the client.’

‘Louise Allard is clever and pragmatic with fantastic client care skills. She fights hard for her clients when necessary but is equally adept at pragmatic compromise and negotiation.’

Work highlights


  • Advised the father of an 9 year old boy with complex medical needs, on his application for a child arrangements order.
  • Advised the wife in a financial remedy application, where the court had to consider arguments about matrimonial v non-matrimonial property and compensation.

Bortoft Bell

Boutique firm Bortoft Bell has ‘unparalleled knowledge of the family court system with empathy’. Founders Arron Bortoft and Charlie Bell co-head the firm. Bell, ‘a genuinely brilliant lawyer‘, is a go-to for nuptial agreements and jurisdictional disputes, while ‘top-class lawyer‘ Bortoft focuses on high-net-worth finance and children proceedings. Catherine Thomas ‘is a truly top-notch solicitor’ with particular experience in international litigation.

Practice head(s):

Arron Bortoft; Charlie Bell


Other key lawyers:

Catherine Thomas


Testimonials

‘This firm combines unparalleled knowledge of the family court system with empathy. They understand how difficult it is to go through children’s proceedings and really listen to clients.’

‘Arron Bortoft is exceptional. A top-class lawyer and an incredibly empathetic person – with excellent attention to detail.’

‘A boutique firm that punch way above their weight. They are on the way up and are already highly ranked by the profession.’

‘Catherine Thomas is a truly top-notch solicitor with bags of experience operating at the highest level.’

‘Talented and dedicated, Bortoft Bell have all the ingredients that were needed to become a ‘go-to’ boutique law firm focusing on HNW work in a short space of time; dedication to their client’s best interests; superb legal talent; and tactical acumen.’

‘Charlie Bell is incredibly bright and a great strategist. He goes above and beyond for his clients and is a match for the very best in the profession. He sees every angle of a case from the off and knows just how to help his client in the best way possible. A fantastic lawyer to have on your side.’

‘Bortoft Bell are a niche family law practice with an excellent reputation, and for very good reason. They are excellent lawyers and tacticians who work hard to get the best results for clients.’

‘Charlie Bell is a genuinely brilliant lawyer. He is compassionate, hardworking and ensures a good deal for each of his clients.’

Carlsons Solicitors

Richard Higham heads up the ‘truly exceptional‘ family team at Carlsons Solicitors, and is praised as a ‘knowledgeable family lawyer’ who is experienced in financial disputes, domestic abuse cases, and cross-border issues, with a focus on private Children Act matters. Daniel Russell is recommended for his work with high-profile clients in matters with significant, legally complex assets. Mark Evans KC works as a consultant barrister with the team.

Practice head(s):

Richard Higham


Other key lawyers:

Matthew Vincent; Mark Evans KC; Daniel Russell


Testimonials

‘Richard Higham is a knowledgeable family lawyer. A robust opponent, he is highly professional, and a respected solicitor.’

‘The family law team at Carlsons Solicitors is truly exceptional, offering a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and dedication to its clients.’

‘The team excels at providing clear, practical advice while ensuring its clients feel supported and empowered. The team’s client-centric approach and ability to deliver personalised solutions make it stand out.’

Work highlights


  • Advising the father of a special needs child on achieving a Live With Order and obtaining urgent protection using the Children Act, in a fraught situation with alleged abuse.
  • Advising on a case involving husband and wife abuse, including both direct and indirect physical and social media abuse.
  • Acting for the father, and his parents/grandparents of the children, on a comprehensive case involving alleged domestic abuse, non-molestation orders, a divorce application, financial proceedings and children with special needs.

DMH Stallard LLP

The ‘extremely sharp’ Philip Morton heads up the family team at DMH Stallard LLP, handling international, complex financial disputes involving offshore trusts and family investment companies. Aziz Malik ‘is a remarkable divorce lawyer‘, while Amanda Glass, who joined the team in September 2023 from Knights, has a notable family and private wealth practice. Jennifer Douglas is experienced in Children Act proceedings and surrogacy law.

Practice head(s):

Philip Morton


Other key lawyers:

Kirsty Kelleher; Aziz Malik; Gavin Yeung; Natasha Slabas; Jennifer Douglas; Amanda Glass; Ella Welsby


Testimonials

‘I am beyond impressed with the competency and people skills of all the lawyers and paralegals I have had contact with at DMH. They obviously recruit the very best.’

‘I have had the good fortune to work with the brilliant Philip Morton on my financial remedy after a divorce overseas. Philip is passionate, intelligent, moral, committed and extremely sharp.’

‘I feel I am in the safest and most capable of hands and would recommend Philip Morton to anyone who can get him. He is an exceptional lawyer and on another level to everyone else.’

‘Aziz Malik is a remarkable divorce lawyer – I couldn’t have asked for anyone better. An expert in his field, he is incredibly kind, patient and fair.’

‘Jennifer Douglas and the team at DMH Stallard LLP are at the highest professional standard, exceptionally knowledgeable and give a personal touch to their interactions with clients.’

‘Jennifer Douglas was invaluable as she helped me navigate the complexities of my international divorce and financial settlement.’

‘Philip Morton stands out in my view. He has years and years of experience and very good judgment. He is generally well respected within the profession.’

‘Jennifer Douglas is very able and hard working.’

Work highlights


  • Obtained an injunction under section 3 of The Protection from Harassment Act in the High Court.

Edwards Family Law

‘One of the forerunners in the wave of new boutique practices‘, Edwards Family Law acts for high and ultra-high-net-worth clients on family law matters from financial disputes and child arrangements to cohabitation and nuptial agreements. Founder Kelly Edwards ‘is a star’, experienced in international matters including jurisdiction disputes.

Practice head(s):

Kelly Edwards


Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Lanning; Isobel Rarok; Chloë Ashman; Katrina Pooler


Testimonials

‘Edwards Family Law is a boutique firm which means they are able to give lots of time to their clients.’

‘The team is energetic and collaborative as well as being constructive.’

‘Kelly Edwards is a top lawyer. She is a fighter, whilst knowing where the line is.’

‘Kate Pooler is meticulous and diligent in her preparation and always with an encyclopaedic knowledge of her clients case. Clients trust her judgement and have faith in her decisions because, along with being an excellent solicitor, she understands the human side of family law.’

‘Underestimate Charlotte Lanning at your peril. A very understated and brilliant lawyer, she has a huge future in the family law industry.’

‘Isobel Rarok is tenacious in her pursuit for the best results for her client.’

‘One of the forerunners in the wave of new boutique practices; Edwards Family Law is dynamic, real and approachable.’

‘Kelly Edwards is a star. She has gravitas and is savvy and adored by her clients and respected by her peers.’

Freeths LLP

The family team at Freeths LLP in London is ‘pragmatic, sensible and outcome-orientated’. Group head Irpreet Kohli is recommended for her tactical analysis of issues, with particular work with clients in the Asian community. Charlotte Coyle is a go-to for international surrogacy matters, as well as work involving grandparents and relatives in child contact arrangements. Judy Bodansky is noted for her work with the Jewish community.

Practice head(s):

Irpreet Kohli


Other key lawyers:

Fiona Wilson; Charlotte Coyle; Judy Bodansky


Testimonials

‘Charlotte Coyle impresses with her work ethic and drive to get the best possible results for her client. She is a partner of the future and a brilliant solicitor.’

‘Freeths is an excellent firm; the team is pragmatic, sensible and outcome-orientated, and will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for the client.’

‘Fiona Wilson is an excellent lawyer; experienced, unshockable, and extremely sensible. She knows her cases inside out and is a voice of calm in an often chaotic world.’

‘Charlotte Coyle is a star; she has a great relationship with clients and works exceptionally well as part of a team.’

‘Freeths have a formidable Family Team with strength in both finance and children proceedings, with particular expertise in modern Family work.’

‘Freeths are a firm with pragmatic, forward thinking lawyers, with client management skills that are second to none.’

‘Irpreet Kohli is fully active in her cases and clients. She has an impressive ability to analyse problems tactically.’

Hall Brown Family Law

Hall Brown Family Law fields an ‘excellent team at every level’, headed up by Izzy Walsh, who is ‘a tour de force’ whose practice involves international cases with complex corporate and trust structures, as well as nuptial agreements. Catherine Bell, ‘an empathetic and pragmatic lawyer’, has notable experience in domestic and international surrogacy issues alongside high-net-worth financial remedy cases.

Practice head(s):

Izzy Walsh


Other key lawyers:

Catherine Bell


Testimonials

‘Izzy Walsh is extremely capable. She makes full use of her commercial background when formulating her case strategy and is a very effective fighter.’

‘Izzy Walsh, the managing partner, is truly excellent. She knows the law as well as most barristers and leaves no stone unturned in her cases – a tour de force.’

‘Excellent team at every level. Hardworking associates who know their cases inside out, and partners who know when to be fully involved or when it is best to have a light touch. Genuinely clever individuals.’

‘Izzy Walsh is super bright, strategic and no-nonsense.’

‘Great example of a boutique firm that has grown, whilst maintained the feeling of a small firm.’

‘Catherine Bell is an empathetic and pragmatic lawyer who is loved by her clients and by barristers.’

‘Hall Brown have a great small team who are highly effective at delivering good value and pragmatic advice in the full range of family law matters from high-net-worth cases to more straightforward matters.’

‘Izzy Walsh is a fantastic lawyer. She is responsive and willing to go the extra mile for clients and instructing lawyers. She provides very good value advice and is somebody that I and my colleagues are very happy to refer matters to.’

Work highlights


  • Advised a client in respect of the prospects of appeal of the first instance decision of his Part III claim.
  • Successfully applied for and was granted a legal services order for a client in respect of his legal costs of the appeal.

Hodge Jones & Allen

‘A stellar firm offering a first-class service‘, Hodge Jones & Allen’s family team is headed up by Jacqueline Major, ‘a highly experienced partner‘ and qualified mediator with expertise regarding all areas of privately funded work. Vanessa Friend joined the team in February 2024 from Stowe Family Law LLP, heading up the mediation and alternative dispute resolution offering. In October 2023, Manisha Raja joined from legacy firm Axiom Ince.

Practice head(s):

Jacqueline Major; Vanessa Friend


Other key lawyers:

Manisha Raja; Rebecca Coates


Testimonials

‘The team are well resourced to cover all client levels, from modest to ultra high net worth clients. They provide excellent advice at all levels.’

‘Jacqueline Major is a highly experienced partner who is comfortable in the most complex financial remedy work. She is not afraid to give direct and robust advice, and will always fight her clients corner.’

‘Hodge Jones & Allen, uniquely, offer a joined up service across commercial, criminal and family law. They have exceptional partners and other lawyers and are able to offer clients a service across all areas.’

‘The family law team has gone from strength to strength under the exceptional management of Jacqueline Major. She is building a top quality team and is a brilliant litigator.’

‘A stellar firm offering a first class service. You are assured that anyone on the Family team is able to offer efficient and effective representation, designed and shown to get consistently good results.’

‘Rebecca Coates offers an exemplary service. Her cases are meticulously and sensibly prepared, and she has a natural ease with clients which provides them confidence.’

‘Kind, considerate, clever and determined. Vanessa Friend is a bit like a swan – calm and serene outwardly, working furiously hard under water.’

‘Manisha Raja is very good with clients: shows a great deal of empathy, is tenacious in dealing with difficult situations, and thinks outside the box.’

Sheridans

Sheridans fields a ‘dynamic and dedicated’ family team, headed up by Andrea Plum, who is ‘a master of what she does‘, regularly handling high-value, complex financial cases and nuptial agreements. Priya Palanivelis a standout lawyer’ in the team, advising clients on multi-jurisdictional asset structures. The team works closely with the firm’s media department, advising on complex tax, corporate and company structures.

Practice head(s):

Andrea Plum


Other key lawyers:

Priya Palanivel; Marianna Lambrou


Testimonials

‘Priya Palanivel has a significant following and is very popular with her clients who appreciate her gritty determination to get them the best possible outcome.’

‘A dynamic and dedicated team.’

‘Priya Palanivel is a warm and engaging partner, with a charming manner with clients. Super supportive of counsel and brings together a tight team.’

‘Andrea Plum is a master of what she does. She is very approachable, and I am aware that her clients have the utmost trust and confidence in her.’

‘Priya Palanivel is an asset to the team who brings her reputation and dynamism. She will fight hard for her clients where needed but also brings her mediation approach to reach a practical solution in most cases. She is experienced in marital agreements, both UK and international.’

‘Priya Palanivel is a standout lawyer. Focused, empathetic and gets the job done. I would have no hesitation in recommending her.’

‘Andrea Plum applies her considerable knowledge to the technicalities involved in a divorce – particularly around the financial aspects involving actuaries and the scope required in obtaining an actuarial report.’

‘Andrea Plum is excellent; under the radar and a no-nonsense lawyer.’

Wedlake Bell LLP

The family team at Wedlake Bell LLP handles complex, international financial disputes, nuptial agreements, and trust assets alongside children law matters. Natasha Kurth is recommended for ultra-high-net-worth matters, and Jennifer Ball is the go-to for children cases, including international relocations, while Sarah Infante is recommended for her expertise in high-value financial claims. Matthew Brunsdon-Tully left in December 2023 to return to practice as a barrister at 1GC | Family Law. Former practice head Charmaine Hast left in September 2024, while Alex Davies joined as practice head from Cripps in November.

Practice head(s):

Alex Davies


Other key lawyers:

Natasha Kurth; Jennifer Ball; Sarah Infante; Colette Dooley


Testimonials

‘Natasha Kurth is highly efficient and intelligent.’

‘A real full service Family department with experience at all levels.’

‘At the forefront of family law and constantly involved in the big cases, Wedlake Bell is a tour de force.’

Winckworth Sherwood LLP

The ‘personable, whip smart and thoroughSarah Ingram leads the team at Winckworth Sherwood LLP, with particular expertise in offshore trust companies and trustees in divorce cases. The group's work includes handling high-net-worth financial remedy and nuptial agreements, along with cohabitation disputes and child arrangement proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Ingram


Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Geyton


Testimonials

‘Sarah Ingram is doing a great job heading up the team. She is a pleasure to deal with and has great trust and rapport with clients.’

‘Sarah Ingram is personable, whip smart and thorough. I can rely on her to have sensible and reasonable dialogue to get the job done.’

‘Comprehensive knowledge of the law, and impressive application to the facts of any given case. Sarah Ingram’s leadership of the team that she brings to your matter really makes a difference, and drives everyone on to get the best results.’

‘Sarah Ingram is the go-to partner. She really listens to clients, identifies the key issues in their particular case, then explains in clear terms the best strategy to achieve their goals.’

‘Sarah Ingram doesn’t pursue “bad points” and maximises the benefit of “good points”. This combined with her excellent case theory development and knowledge of the law means you can place clients with her with confidence.’

‘The team provides a really high level of client service and skill.’

‘Sarah Ingram and Charlotte Geyton make a great team.’

‘Sarah Ingrams is very reliable and effective.’

Broadfield Law UK LLP

Characterised by its ‘exceptional breadth of experience‘, the family team at Broadfield Law UK LLP acts for clients internationally with notable expertise regarding cohabitation and nuptial agreements. Team head Vandana Chitroda joined the firm in September 2023 from RIAA Barker Gillette, followed by William Roberts-Phelps in October. Chitroda is recommended for ‘heavyweight work‘.

Practice head(s):

Vandana Chitroda


Other key lawyers:

Anna Stanworth; Alice Balcombe; William Roberts-Phelps


Testimonials

‘The re-invigorated family team under Vandana Chitroda are excellent. They combine sound advice with empathy and robust representation.’

‘Anna Stanworth is all over the detail, and always on hand and accessible.’

‘William Roberts-Phelps is a star on the rise. His cases are well beyond his years and he is exceptional at managing clients.’

‘Anna Stanworth is exceptional. She is extremely sharp, diligent and doesn’t miss anything.’

‘The team at BDB Pitmans have exceptional breadth of experience – there is someone suited for all cases. Members of the team are knowledgeable and approachable.’

‘Vandana Chitroda is well known in the field for covering heavyweight work, including for high net worth individuals.’

‘Anna Stansworth is a breath of fresh air. She has the fantastic balance of managing all the fine detail in a case whilst being able to keep her eye on the big picture. She never loses sight of the wood through the trees.’

‘William Roberts-Phelps is an exceptional solicitor. His knowledge of family law is second to none. He is very caring and empathetic and is very well liked by clients.’

Birketts LLP

Birketts LLP‘s London family team is headed up by Tom Quinn, a ‘smart and assured’ partner whose practice involves multi-jurisdictional cases. Jennifer Headon moved over from the firm’s Chelmsford office in October 2023, and leads the international family law department; she is ‘highly experienced‘ in ‘complex asset structures’ including offshore trusts, family businesses, and significant pensions.

Practice head(s):

Tom Quinn; Jennifer Headon


Testimonials

‘The London Team at Birketts is as good as it gets. They are the shining example of a small but incredibly experienced and bespoke family team in a firm which can offer associated commercial and private client support.’

‘Tom Quinn brings with him the experience gained over many years working for the top-ranked ‘magic circle’ London family law firms. There is nothing he has not seen before, no case too complex and he is very astute tactically.’

‘Their breadth of experience means they can pick up all aspects of a case. They are particularly client and outcome focused which means their advice is always pragmatic and centred on what is best for that particular individual client in their particular circumstances.’

‘Jennifer Headon is highly experienced so can handle complex asset structures and thorny cases with ease. Very calm and cool headed.’

‘Tom Quinn is smart and assured. He gives solid advice, he knows when to fight and when to negotiate.’

‘Jennifer Headon is fiercely attentive to her client’s needs, hungry for the best outcome for them and a joy to work with. She is organised, efficient and pays close attention to detail.’

‘Tom Quinn is a first-class lawyer building an excellent team in London. One to watch.’

‘Birketts offer an excellent service, providing high end advice to a local market. I have been hugely impressed by the manner in which they have carried the client through difficult and complex cases.’

Bishop & Sewell LLP

Fielding an ‘excellent team’ which gets ‘great results for clients’, Bishop & Sewell LLP‘s family practice advises on nuptial agreements, financial remedies, and children matters. Team head Philip Rutter is ‘extremely knowledgeable‘, often acting for entrepreneurs and those with inherited wealth. The practice is also able to handle international cases, regularly involving trust aspects.

Practice head(s):

Philip Rutter


Testimonials

‘Philip Rutter is kind, professional and always available to help me through this divorce process. His advice has been very spot on.’

‘They provide excellent client care and are very approachable, down to earth solicitors. At the same time, they will fight hard for their clients and provide high quality advice.’

‘A good team in a competitive market. A go-to firm.’

Branch Austin McCormick LLP

A quality firm with excellent representation‘, Branch Austin McCormick LLP is headed up by ‘experienced litigatorSaika Alam, working with Julius Brookman, whose expertise is in international matters. Caroline Ford is noted for her non-court dispute resolution skills, and the team gained solicitor and mediator Robyn Allardice-Bourne in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Saika Alam


Other key lawyers:

Julius Brookman; Caroline Ford; Robyn Allardice-Bourne


Testimonials

‘Julius Brookman is always available, he gives great advice with a thorough understanding of the court system, he is always good humoured and patient, takes time to explain things and I feel he genuinely cares about a good outcome for all of us.’

‘Branch Austin LLP are beginning to assemble a collection of fine family lawyers who have a natural commitment to non court dispute resolution.’

‘Saika Alam is an experienced litigator and collaborative practitioner that always gives good sound advice.’

‘Robyn Allardice-Bourne is a charismatic family lawyer with a good reputation for TOLATA and Sch 1 cases.’

‘Caroline Ford is always firmly in her clients corner. Her case preparation is meticulous. She leaves no stone unturned. She is also very personable and quickly wins the confidence of others.’

‘This is a boutique firm with excellent representation.’

‘A dedicated and hardworking team, Branch Austin LLP is skilled in a variety of areas of law with specialists in all fields.’

‘Saika Alam makes sure there are no stones left unturned and is thorough and detailed in her consideration of all matters and all papers.’

Cripps

Cripps‘ ‘excellent and experienced’ London family offering is headed up by Alex Davies: ‘robust, and good at the detail of cases’, Davies represents a range of high and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Simon Donald provides ‘practical, tactical, reasonable advice’ to clients, including unmarried couples. The group's non-court dispute resolution options include Camilla Hooper, who is a qualified mediator.

Practice head(s):

Alex Davies


Other key lawyers:

Simon Donald; Camilla Hooper; Helen Fisher


Testimonials

‘An excellent and experienced family team. Clients have absolute confidence in them. Very astute approach, shrewd judgement and effective.’

‘Cripps have made huge efforts to grow their London offering and with Alex Davies at the helm as Head of Department, they have made huge steps in the right direction.’

‘Alex Davies is rightly recognised as a Leading Individual and has built the family team up in a way that others can only try to replicate. He is one the best Lawyers I have ever had the pleasure and fortune of working with.’

‘Simon Donald has given practical, tactical, reasonable advice in respect to Family proceedings.’

‘Simon Donald has great knowledge & experience, he always explains everything very clearly, with good communication at all times.’

‘The family team at Cripps is collaborative in its approach.’

‘Alex Davies is robust, and good at the detail of cases. Equally he avoids labouring poor points, and works collaboratively where appropriate.’

Work highlights


  • Advising the successful appellant in Savage v Savage [2024] EWCA CIV 49 – defining the law in circumstances where there is a dispute as to property or land entitlement, establishing the court is not bound to only take into account the views of the majority beneficial owner(s).

Curzon Green Solicitors

Curzon Green Solicitors‘ family team stands out for its ‘strong commitment to client care and getting the job done’. Rob Green and Jeff Thomas co-lead the team, Green is noted for his work with vulnerable clients, while Thomas has a range of matrimonial finance experience. Kelly-Ann Welsh has experience of cases involving domestic violence, and Umar Mirza often handles complex child arrangements.

Practice head(s):

Jeff Thomas; Rob Green


Other key lawyers:

Kelly-Ann Walsh; Umar Mirza


Testimonials

‘Curzon Green are humane and responsive, communicative, and Kelly-Ann Walsh who is now well-deservedly a partner, typifies the firm’s hardworking, no stone left unturned approach.’

‘Rob Green is a very experienced well-liked and well-respected solicitor, who commands respect in court.’

‘The family law team at Curzon Green stand out for their strong commitment to client care and getting the job done. They are a close knit team, leveraging each other’s experience and dedicated support.’

‘The team at Curzon Green are extremely client focused and go above and beyond to serve their clients. They are realistic and fair in the advice they give and always thoroughly prepared.’

‘Kelly-Ann Welsh is an extremely dedicated and personable lawyer who guides clients through litigation fairly and thoroughly.’

‘Kelly-Ann Welsh is a stand-out family law solicitor who I have recommended more than once. She is particularly capable at dealing with vulnerable clients and more sensitive cases.’

‘Umar Mirza is an exceptional solicitor, turning over every stone to ensure the client gets the best service.’

‘Umar Mirza is extremely attentive to his clients and will go above and beyond to support them throughout their experience with the Family Court system.’

Work highlights


  • Acting for the wife in financial relief proceedings involving complex legal arguments concerning whether assets were matrimonial or non-matrimonial.
  • Acting for the wife in financial relief proceedings complicated by jurisdiction and the potential dissipation by the husband of funds held in UK bank accounts.
  • Acting for the husband in acrimonious and contested financial proceedings with assets in excess of £5m.

Grayfords

Grayfords‘ family team offers clients an ‘incredibly attentive and tailored service‘ across the full spectrum of private family law matters. The group's experience includes relationship agreements, financial arrangements, children and parenting matters, including international work, and domestic abuse matters. Founder and team head Sheata Karim ‘is a tour de force with exceptional charm‘.

Practice head(s):

Sheata Karim


Other key lawyers:

Neil Scott Graham; Alexander Hunt


Testimonials

‘Grayfords are a firm that place a high premium on legal expertise and exceptional client service. Grayfords have cultivated an approachable and grounded approach within their cases which allows them to stand out from other rival firms in the market.’

‘Sheata Karim is a tour de force with exceptional charm, intellect and legal instincts. Her clients always can rest assured that no stone will be uncovered in presenting their case and that sensible realistic advice will be given as to their prospects.’

‘Alex Hunt is a star, a technical and pragmatic lawyer who is robust but empathetic to the more difficult and sensitive issues that arise in his cases.’

Hopkin Murray Beskine Solicitors

Hopkin Murray Beskine Solicitors provides a ‘no nonsense, client-focused, good old fashioned solicitor’s service‘, headed up by Sarah Beskine, whose particular expertise is in financial remedy and international child abduction issues. Christina Theodorou is a go-to for private children cases, and one of the firm’s domestic violence specialists. Serena Sandhu ‘is a future family law star‘.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Beskine


Other key lawyers:

Serena Sandhu; Christina Theodorou


Testimonials

‘Sarah Beskine is an outstanding family lawyer. She’s immensely knowledgeable, tremendously engaged and hard-working.’

‘Serena Sandhu is a star. She is an all-rounder, across all areas of law, particularly financial remedy and private law proceedings. She is a future family law star.’

‘The client can be supremely confident that everything has been thought of, and their case will be handled impeccably. This firm’s dedication to its clients is evident.’

ITN Solicitors

ITN Solicitors‘ ‘fantastic family and childcare team‘ is headed up by Mitali Zakaria, ‘a leader in her field‘ with particular emphasis on private and public children law work. Somia Siddiq is recommended for complex care cases, including where there are allegations of non-accidental injury, induced illness, or those matters with parallel criminal proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Mitali Zakaria


Other key lawyers:

Sajidah Khan; Somia Siddiq; Androulla Nicolaou


Testimonials

‘Mitali Zakaria has a strong profile and excellent reputation in the public law children team.’

‘Somia Siddiq is dedicated and inspiring; she is just fantastic and an asset to ITN.’

‘A committed, hard working team, who provide a high level of representation for parents and children.’

‘Androulla Nicolaou is dedicated to providing the best possible outcome for her clients. She has experience in the most serious care cases.’

‘Somia Siddiq is an excellent solicitor with vast experience of children cases. She is always a joy to work with.’

‘ITN have a fantastic family and childcare team. They cover a breadth of areas of law including some very niche and complex areas including honour based violence work and work with international aspects.’

‘Mitali Zakaria is a leader in her field. She is a composed, articulate and go to lawyer for complex children and family matters.’

‘Somia Siddiqi is very respected for her contributions to children law.’

Laurus

Laurus is going from ‘strength to strength’ in its family work, often handling complex and high-value financial disputes. Team head Steven Gasser specialises in complex financial matters, while mediator William Hogg is recommended for his work with children. Jacqueline Fitzgerald joined the team in October 2023 from Grosvenor Law, ‘a real star’ providing ‘frank and tactically astute advice‘.

Practice head(s):

Steven Gasser


Other key lawyers:

William Hogg; Ingrid Starcic; Jacqueline Fitzgerald; Jack McBride


Testimonials

‘Laurus is a small family law team with some very high net worth work, and complex private children international work. The team remains very resolution focused.’

‘I would highly recommend Laurus. They dealt with my divorce with sensitivity and were always available to discuss the ongoing proceedings. ’

‘William Hogg is very knowledgeable and experienced. He’s seen it all before. Great mediation and child inclusive mediation practice.’

Lowry Legal

Lowry Legal‘s London family team has a range of expertise spanning divorces, financial settlements, and cohabitation and nuptial agreements. The group's children work includes child arrangements, surrogacy issues and fertility law. Team head Katie McCann works between Manchester and London, and London-based Michelle Uppal is an accredited mediator with experience in multijurisdictional cases.

Practice head(s):

Katie McCann


Other key lawyers:

Michael Gregory; Michelle Uppal; Lesley Smythe


Manders Law

Manders Law's founder and head Mary-Ann Wright is a ‘formidable talent‘, specialising in financial remedies, child arrangements, and advice for unmarried parents and cohabitees. The team focuses on high-value, complex matters, often cross-border and involving foreign assets, and is ‘a go-to firm for HNW individuals‘. The ‘diligent and focused’ Emily Kozien-Colyer is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Mary-Ann Wright


Other key lawyers:

Emily Kozien-Colyer


Testimonials

‘Manders is a go-to firm for HNW individuals who want to feel listened to and for whom an effective strategy will be crafted from an early stage.’

‘Mary-Ann Wright remains a formidable talent. She is ably assisted by Emily Kozien-Colyer, who is a rising force in HNW divorce cases. The team is agile, loyal, hardworking and fantastic.’

‘Manders go above and beyond for their clients. Everything is prepared thoroughly, in good time and without error.’

Work highlights


  • Advising the wife of an UHNW businessman in divorce and financial remedy proceedings supported by her Russian based team.
  • Advising a husband, a founder of an international company, seeking to protect his complex business interests on divorce.

Miles Preston

Boutique firm Miles Preston takes ‘a resolute, fearless approach to litigation’, and is headed up by ‘titan of family lawMarcus Dearle. Dearle is particularly experienced in international matters, recommended as the ‘go to for cases with a connection to Hong Kong‘. Julia Stanczyk is noted for her family finance expertise, and Harriet Wait is praised as ‘bold and resourceful‘.

Practice head(s):

Marcus Dearle


Other key lawyers:

Julia Stanczyk; Harriet Wait; Rahanna Choudhury


Testimonials

‘A niche firm with a resolute, fearless approach to litigation. Unmatched in commitment to clients throughout London.’

‘Harriet Wait is unique in family law circles. Gives her all to clients, always available, always thinking about their cases. Good at the law, great at tactics, bold and resourceful.’

‘Marcus Dearle is a true titan of family law. Without doubt the best matrimonial-trusts solicitor in the country.’

‘A truly boutique family law firm with a particular strength in dealing with trusts within matrimonial finance.’

‘Marcus Dearle is a joy to work with and beloved by clients. The go to for cases with a connection to Hong Kong.’

‘Rahanna Choudhury is highly conscientious and has excellent judgement.’

‘Miles Preston is one of the most highly respected and experienced family finance firms in London. It has the advantage of only operating in family law and is therefore targeted delivering the best possible results in that field.’

‘Julia Stanczyk is one of the most experienced and most respected practitioners in this field. She knows everyone in family finance and uses her considerable experience to achieve fabulous results.’

Peters May LLP

Peters May LLP‘s ‘integrity is second to none‘, specialising in high-net-worth divorce and prenuptial agreements including those involving disputed property such as offshore assets and trusts. Juliette Peters and Jessica May, co-founders, head up the team; Peters is a ‘formidable’ expert, and May is recommended for her ‘pragmatic’ approach.

Practice head(s):

Juliette Peters; Jessica May


Testimonials

‘Juliette Peters is formidable. She has huge intellect and a wonderful personality which clients love. Her legal ability is impressive and she will go all the way for her clients.’

‘Jessica May is a sensible, pragmatic, very competent lawyer who cares about her clients.’

‘Outstanding in every area, Juliette Peters never lost her patience, nor her focus and kept a steady vision for us as a family unit.’

‘Peters May is a small firm of family law specialists whose integrity is second to none. They are recognised within their field as exemplary and thus attract the respect of judges and barristers.’

‘Amazing team. They give practical and constructive advice. The Partners bring decades of family law experience to their boutique practice.’

‘Juliette Peters and Jessica May are both real stand outs; highly respected partners in the family law field. They both have a direct and practical approach to resolving family law issues, which is hugely appreciated and valued by clients.’

‘It is a boutique firm solely focusing on family work so it is a specialist practice where the staff, even at a junior level, have great experience and are incredibly knowledgeable and tactically aware.’

‘Friendly, client focused, strong knowledge and experience, personable. Jessica May and Juliette Peters are exceptional.’

Philcox Gray & Co

Boutique family firm Philcox Gray & Co is particularly recommended for its work with vulnerable clients in challenging circumstances. Beverley King is noted for her work in complex care proceedings, and leads the team alongside Lucy Verity, who is a mediator and international child abduction specialist, and Sephona Isaacs-Polson, who is a stand out for domestic abuse expertise.

Practice head(s):

Sephona Isaacs-Polson; Beverley King; Lucy Verity


Other key lawyers:

Somaya Devlin; Ipeleng Mohajane; Dilishi Dhanapala


Testimonials

‘The team is committed to obtaining the best outcome for all their clients. Their strength is representing clients who are facing particularly challenging circumstances, and are vulnerable.’

‘Beverley King is very good. She has a really lovely manner about her. Clients and opponents love her.’

‘Lucy Verity is a very experienced and impressive solicitor. She is thorough and hardworking, very understanding with clients, and good in court. Firm when needed and also sensible and resolution-focused.’

Pinsent Masons LLP

Michael Pulford leads the family offering at Pinsent Masons LLP, specialising in jurisdictional disputes. The team has particular expertise in offshore trusts and companies involved in family proceedings, and regularly advises clients with assets in the Middle East. Grace MacDonald is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Michael Pulford


Other key lawyers:

Grace MacDonald


Rayden Solicitors

Rayden Solicitors‘ London offering takes a ‘dynamic and collaborative approach‘ with arbitration, mediation, and collaborative law advice offered to clients. Julian Bremner heads up the London office; he conducts financial arbitrations and is a go-to for nuptial agreements. In complex children cases, Anna-Laura Lock stands out, including issues with social services involvement. Stuart Clark is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Julian Bremner; Emma Nash; Anna-Laura Lock


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Moore; Rory Laide; Stuart Clark


Testimonials

‘Julian Bremner is excellent. He really knows his stuff and is unafraid of a fight but has the good judgment to tell when a more conciliatory approach is called for. I think his confidence is very reassuring for clients.’

‘The team at Rayden take a dynamic and collaborative approach to settling both children and finance disputes, always looking to avoid litigation if possible. Each case is co-worked with a partner which gives a high level overview to decision making and provides consistent support to both client and counsel.’

‘Anna-Laura Lock combines empathy and intelligence in equal parts: the perfect prescription for a family lawyer. Handles cases of complexity and well able to deal with difficult clients when the need arises.’

‘The team has expanded rapidly in recent years but without compromising on quality, which is a testament to the overall vision of the management team, and the attractiveness of its offer. Going places.’

‘A well known and highly regarded firm with excellent lawyers across all levels of seniority. The firm works in all areas of family law, and has a particularly able team working on family formation including surrogacy and step-parent adoption, where they have had some recent high-profile cases.’

‘Jennifer Moore is widely regarded as being an excellent lawyer with a down-to-earth manner, able to spot potential problems in a case from early on and set the case on the right path to avoid them. Extremely able with technical law, Jenny also has a calm and can-do approach that reassures clients.’

‘Rayden Solicitors have numerous offices in London and surrounding counties. Each office is staffed with a first rate team of solicitors. I recommend this firm to clients without hesitation.’

‘Incredibly attentive and loyal to their clients.’

Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP

Adam Bowes heads up the family team at Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP, and is ‘a great all-around family lawyer‘ with notable expertise in handling nuptial agreements for high-net-worth individuals. The team also has experience in matters involving allegations of coercive behaviour, and cross-border cases and those with international elements are often handled by Beth Alexander.

Practice head(s):

John O’Callaghan; Adam Bowes


Other key lawyers:

Beth Alexander


Testimonials

‘Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP is a delight to work with as they take a practical stance and are very approachable. They have a strong team of very capable family law solicitors. They are confident, diligent and have superb client care and knowledge of family law.’

‘Adam Bowes is very approachable; he listens carefully to his clients and makes them feel at ease. He is very good at managing people’s expectations even if it is not what they want to hear, with such information delivered in a very palatable manner.’

‘Ronald Fletcher Baker is one of the most diverse law firms I have come across.’

‘Adam Bowes is a great all-around family lawyer. He is very knowledgeable and deals with some very complex cases. He is friendly, compassionate and gives sound advice.’

‘This team is standout. They will fight for a client with tenacity and foresight, but will not be afraid to give honest and clear advice on the best way forward.’

‘Adam Bowes is an incredible lawyer. He wins the trust of clients with compassion and momentum, and is a wonderful team player.’

‘Beth Alexander is fiercely protective of her clients, and will fight their corner unhesitatingly.’

‘Adam Bowes leads the team confidently and supports every client with close and careful humility. He is thoughtful, sensitive and supportive for each and every case that crosses his desk, paying them the highest level of care and attention.’

Work highlights


  • Acting for the father on the Appeal of F v M [2023] EWFC 5, which relates to the first time the High Court has considered serious allegations of coercive and controlling behaviour and the difference between married and unmarried couples in terms of Orders for contact and the revocation of Parental Responsibility.
  • Acting for the 2nd and 3rd Respondents in S1 Ltd. v Unnamed defendants [2024] relating to the beneficial and legal ownership of company assets alongside individually owned assets.

Simkins LLP

Simkins LLP has ‘an excellent niche family law practice‘, with an emphasis on asset protection and preservation work for high-net-worth individuals through nuptial agreements and financial disputes, often advising cohabiting unmarried couples. Team head Deborah Jeff regularly advises clients in the music industry. Flora Grossman joined the firm from Blake Morgan LLP in May 2024.

Practice head(s):

Deborah Jeff


Other key lawyers:

Flora Grossman; Jessica Keal


Testimonials

‘Simkins have an excellent niche family law practice, punching considerably above its weight with the cases and clients that it handles.’

‘Deborah Jeffs is a savvy and experienced operator who understands cases extremely well and gives sensible advice to clients early on.’

‘Excellent knowledge and experience. Providing industry leaders in different areas of law.’

‘Deborah Jeff is exceptional in the care and compassion she extends to her clients, alongside the deep subject matter expertise she possesses.’

‘A solid firm which has everything under control.’

‘Deborah Jeff displays excellent client management and is very organised.’

Stevens & Bolton LLP

The family team at Stevens & Bolton LLP is headed up by the ‘first class’ Nicola Harries, regularly handling complex financial proceedings. The practice also covers nuptial agreements and private children proceedings, including international work.

Practice head(s):

Nicola Harries


Other key lawyers:

Sean Hilton; Victoria Batstone


Testimonials

‘Stevens and Bolton work collaboratively to tailor their support to support the needs of vulnerable clients.’

‘Nicola Harries is extremely bright and able to think laterally and outside the box when seeking to find solutions for clients.’

‘Victoria Batstone is hard working and diligent in her approach. She also clearly understands family law, including child matters. I couldn’t ask for a more informed and supportive solicitor.’

‘Sean Hilton is a charming and calming guide for clients through even the most difficult of cases. A big name in the market, one who is getting bigger for good reason. He has a well deserved reputation for excellence and ability beyond his years. A very bright future awaits.’

‘Nicola Harries and her team provide a refreshingly different approach because they put the client first in genuinely seeking a pragmatic solution, rather than creating ongoing conflict between divorcing parties.’

‘Nicola Harries, who runs the team, is first class in terms of being user friendly for clients whilst being technically strong and robust in negotiations where needed.’

‘The team at Stevens & Bolton is very friendly, technically capable, and pragmatic.’

Work highlights


  • Acting for a wife and providing advice in relation to finances – the parties have assets in three European jurisdictions and significant investments, and are in the process of moving towards a private financial dispute resolution hearing.
  • Advising a husband in proceedings – the parties both benefit from significant and complex family assets (including trusts and estates) and there is an earning capacity issue regarding the other party.
  • Advising a client in relation to the preparation of a pre nuptial agreement to protect most of their £20-40m wealth on marriage, which caters for a more generous provision if the couple have children.

Stowe Family Law LLP

Rosanna Hounslow, praised for her ‘excellent’ knowledge and ‘superb’ approach, co-heads the Stowe Family Law LLP London team with Phoebe Turner, firm managing partner. The firm acquired Crisp & Co in December 2023, gaining Anna Clifton. The practice draws on the firm’s 80 offices nationally to cover all private family law matters, with noted experience in handling adoption, fertility law, and property matters for cohabiting couples.

Practice head(s):

Phoebe Turner; Rosanna Hounslow


Other key lawyers:

Ciara Pugh; Alice Brett; Phoebe Hill; Jemma Slavin; Emma McMorrow; Samantha Farndale; Anna Clifton


Testimonials

‘Stowe family law are a safe pair of hands with a wide range of solicitors.’

‘The team at Stowe has a breadth of expertise and experience which provides clients with a wide ranging pool of knowledge to draw on. There are a number of excellent lawyers, which means that clients’ cases are well managed and prepared. The team has a real sense of supporting a client from the start to the completion of a case.’

‘Rosanna Hounslow has knowledge and a skill set far beyond her years. She is the go to person within her firm when others have questions. Her knowledge of the law is excellent and her tactical approach to cases is superb.’

‘Samantha Farndale is stand out. She has excellent client skills and a very good feel for the right outcome which is key in such a discretionary area of law.’

‘Emma McMorrow is capable, kind, and has an amazing ability to form a rapport with even the most difficult and demanding of clients. She is hardworking, dedicated and smart.’

‘The team are switched-on, highly knowledgeable and skilled at client-handling. Stowe draws upon many resources from its many offices and has a solid expertise in family law.’

‘A household name for good reason, Stowe provides a good legal service throughout the country.’

Teelan & Silwal Family Law Ltd

Teelan & Silwal Family Law Ltd is a boutique firm, recommended as ‘agile and able to react rapidly to any situation‘. Co-founders Catherine Silwal and Rosalyn O’Donnell-Teelan head up the firm; Silwal handles complex financial and children matters with particular experience working with the Nepalese community, and O’Donnell-Teelan is a go to for high-profile clients.

Practice head(s):

Catherine Silwal; Rosalyn O’Donnell-Teelan


Other key lawyers:

Fiona O’Connell; Marina Pedro


Testimonials

‘A small boutique Family law firm who are very agile and able to react rapidly to any situation.’

‘Rosalyn O’Donnell-Teelan looks for solutions, not problems. She is easy to deal with, but never a pushover.’

‘They treat their clients very professionally and protect them fiercely. Extremely insightful and perceptive to the best interest of the client.

Thomson Snell & Passmore

Thomson Snell & Passmore‘s family team is headed up by a ‘stellar, off-the-scale brilliant partner’ Joanna Pratt, whose practice focuses on high-net-worth financial cases and nuptial agreements. Kirstie Law and Desmond O’Donnell are trained mediators; Law qualified to consult with children in the mediation process and O’Donnell offers notable experience in California-related matters.

Practice head(s):

Joanna Pratt


Other key lawyers:

Kirstie Law; Desmond O’Donnell; Harry Golding; Anna Woodhoo; Sarah Keily


Testimonials

‘A strong, capable and personable team which is totally client centric and always acts in their best interests. Specific strengths beyond legal expertise and knowledge include an empathetic approach and a less gung-ho manner than other more forthright firms. This is important in Family practice where most parents just want the very best outcome for their children.’

‘The firm has an excellent team at all levels of experience. Clients value their empathy and practical advice focused on achieving the best outcome for the client and professionals respect their knowledge and case work and know that a case is in a safe pair of hands. They excel in all areas.’

‘Joanna Pratt and Kirstie Law are truly outstanding partners at the firm. They focus on resolution and ensuring the best outcome for the client.’

Venters Solicitors

The team at Venters Solicitors leverages the group’s ‘formidable’ knowledge to support vulnerable clients, specialising in public sector work involving the Children Act, along with private law matrimonial cases. June Venters KC, ‘a real stand out performer‘ in complex children cases, co-heads the team with matrimonial and child care specialist Andrea Dawkins, who is particularly experienced in mandates involving mental health elements.

Practice head(s):

June Venters KC; Andrea Dawkins


Other key lawyers:

Tracey Brett; Sherma Polidore; Helena Aiyudubia


Testimonials

‘June Venters KC is a real stand out performer who is unafraid to fight as hard as she can. June is particularly noted in alienation cases and she is 110% dedicated to clients – I would recommend her strongly.’

‘The team works to a very high standard and cases are prepared to a high standard ensuring a client’s case is clearly set out. Attention to detail ensures that all relevant material has been gathered.’

‘Venters is a well known firm for covering all areas of family law. Their knowledge base is formidable and every member of the team I have worked with have been intelligent, helpful and have excellent customer service skills. Any client who is represented by Venters is a lucky client.’