Firms To Watch: Family

Wilsons ramped up its family law capabilities in Salisbury with the recruitment of new practice head Natasha Grande, formerly of Bross Bennett, in June 2023.

Family in South West

Ashfords LLP

Ashfords LLP regularly acts for high net worth clients in high-value divorce and finance cases as well as on asset protection matters. The team is frequently instructed by domestic and international business owners to advise on the valuation and division of tech company assets, and it also regularly handles financial remedy matters involving multinational trust and property assets. Practice head Zoe Porter  is well-versed in alternative dispute resolution and regularly advises unmarried couples on a wide range of children and financial issues, while Jayne Turner routinely drafts pre- and postnuptial agreements and handles family finance matters involving agricultural assets and military pensions. Samantha Newton handles wealth protection matters and also specialises in child relocation issues.

Practice head(s):

Zoe Porter


Other key lawyers:

Samantha Newton; Jayne Turner; Megan Prideaux; Sue Ellingham; Isobel Massey; Jane Trenaman


Testimonials

‘Samantha Newton – very good judgment. Good manner with clients. Efficient and pragmatic advice. ’

‘Ashfords is an excellent family law practice with a great breadth of expertise, making them an automatic choice for finance work.’

‘Ashfords are collaborative, polite and helpful. They have the facilities to create brilliant bundles and to handle media evidence.’

‘Isobel Massey goes the extra mile for her clients and is extremely well prepared. She is very helpful for counsel and writes detailed and clear instructions, whilst also keeping counsel in the loop re bundles.’

‘Zoe Porter is very experienced and full of common sense. People like and trust her.’

‘Samantha Newton and Megan Prideaux are a formidable team who bring sound advice and empathy to their clients. ’

‘Zoe Porter leads a team of real experts who take a practical and pragmatic approach. They are straightforward to deal with and seek solutions.’

‘Samantha Newton is an experienced partner who is making her mark in Bristol. I have direct experience of her in relation to asset protection work and she knows her stuff. ’

Work highlights


Burges Salmon LLP

With a presence spanning Bristol and London, the team at Burges Salmon LLP is very active in financial matters, standing out for its ability to advise on high-value prenuptial agreements and represent clients in financial remedy proceedings, with a particular penchant for acting in private FDRs. The team regularly collaborates with the firm’s private wealth practice to advise high net-worth individuals with business assets, landed estates, and/or assets in multiple jurisdictions on asset protection matters and marital property regimes. Practice head Sarah Hoskinson is noted for her ability to negotiate complex financial settlements involving international assets, while Alison Hawes routinely handles financial settlements involving agricultural estates and family businesses. Hannah Petherick is highly regarded for her expertise in private children law matters.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Hoskinson


Other key lawyers:

Alison Hawes; Richard Handel; Hannah Petherick; Carrie Stoneham; Michael Finnegan; Chris Salter


Testimonials

‘The Burges Salmon family team is effective, cohesive and rightly respected across the board.’

‘Sarah Hoskinson is extremely numerate, extremely sensible, extremely effective.’

‘A top firm near the top of the tree. Limitless resources and no expense spared.’

‘Alison Hawes is one of Bristol’s best known practitioners in the field. Hannah Petherick provides outstanding support and can handle pretty much anything- however tricky the case or client.

‘Beyond any doubt the stellar outfit in the South West. They are a seriously impressive cohort of solicitors who have a culture of quality service and attention to detail. They really do go the extra mile for their clients.’

‘Hannah Petherick has a really impressive knowledge of her cases. Independent thinking and a superb client care. Chris Salter is really bright and thoughtful. More experienced and intuitive than his years might indicate. Richard Handel is empathetic, patient and an exceptional mind. ’

‘Real strength in depth and a team of experts at every level. Without doubt one of the leading firms in the South West and the go-to firm for sophisticated clients.’

Work highlights


Clarke Willmott LLP

Complex financial remedy proceedings are a key area of focus for Clarke Willmott LLP, which works with an array of high net-worth individuals on both a national and international basis. The team has experience handling pre- and postnuptial agreements involving domestic and offshore assets, and it regularly draws on firmwide strengths in corporate, employment, and private wealth matters to negotiate divorce settlements involving business structures, trusts, bankruptcy issues, and pension funds. Bristol-based lawyer Gareth Schofield, who is noted for his experience with unmarried family and cross-border financial remedy disputes, co-heads the team with Taunton-based cohabitation and child arrangements expert Philippa Yeo. Yeo is also well-versed in agricultural financial remedy matters.

Practice head(s):

Gareth Schofield; Philippa Yeo


Other key lawyers:

Clare Webb; Hannah Livesey; Rebecca Aston-Jones; Leonie Browning


Testimonials

‘Clarke Willmott provides clients with a first-rate service. The intellect of Gareth Schofield is unrivalled in Bristol. He overseas a dedicated team who together offer realistic advice delivered with a high level of professionalism. I would send friends and family to Clarke Willmott.’

‘Gareth Schofield has a brain the size of a planet whilst being professional, pragmatic and very approachable. Leonie Browning works closely with Gareth Schofield and she is a strong junior solicitor. Philippa Yeo is meticulous in her preparation whilst ensuring that the main points of her client’s case retain focus.’

‘A firm right at the top of the sector. No lack of resources, good employee retention, a good mix of lawyers with outstanding leadership.’

‘Gareth Schofield has for years been one of the go-to lawyers in the sector. He is ably supported by Clare Webb and Phillipa Yeo. ’

‘From top to bottom, they offer a full service across the board. There is real quality in the family and real estate teams in Bristol and Taunton – used to high-end farming/complex business cases. I have nothing but the highest praise for the ethos and direction of the firm. ’

‘Phillips Yeo is an exceptionally impressive solicitor – she has a great following giving robust and realistic advice. Will go the extra mile. When instructed by her it feels as though one is part of a team.’

‘The best firm doing financial remedy work I know.’

‘Rebecca Aston-Jones approaches her cases strategically. She is perceptive, and warm towards clients whilst delivering commercially sound advice in an understandable way. She is responsive to communication and will always make time to discuss a point in a case when the need arises. ’

Work highlights


Lyons Davidson

The ‘absolutely brilliant and very hardworking‘ practice at Lyons Davidson is widely praised for its market-leading expertise in child abduction matters, fielding a team of international child law specialists capable of taking on both private and public cases. Cross-border parental abduction disputes represent a particular specialism for practice head Philippa Morgan, who is vastly experienced handling cases under the 1980 Hague Convention, as well as for Joshua Roderick. The team is also very active in handling child and domestic abuse cases, owing to the expertise of Donna Cummins and Iona Phillips in care proceedings and children law matters. Carol Chrisfield is a key contact for financial remedy matters.

Practice head(s):

Philippa Morgan


Other key lawyers:

Donna Cummins; Iona Phillips; Joshua Roderick; Carol Chrisfield


Testimonials

‘Lyons Davidson has strength in depth across all areas of family law. Their international family law team is unrivalled.’

‘Philippa Morgan is at the very top of her game. She is equal to any international family lawyer in the UK. She is a strategic master and knows how to manage a case.’

‘This firm provides excellent advice and representation in a variety of different areas including international child abduction. ’

‘Philippa Morgan is a truly superb specialist in the field of international child abduction. Her knowledge is second to none and she provides flawless advice. Joshua Roderick is also excellent.’

‘Absolutely brilliant and very hardworking team. They work fantastically together and ensure you get a stellar service as counsel. Very good up-to-date knowledge of new developments in a rapidly evolving legal area. Responsive to requests for further information and willing to try new tactics, innovate with legal theory, and support counsel on some of the most difficult cases in family law. ’

‘Philippa Morgan is a dream partner. She is wholly dedicated, a complete professional, and an incisive legal mind. I feel fully supported as counsel with her instructing me and thoroughly enjoy every case no matter how difficult it may become. I cannot recommend her highly enough.  Joshua Roderick is, likewise, fantastic. He has learnt incredibly quickly and is now at a level far beyond his PQE standing. Available and always ready and willing to help in any way he can. He is brilliant with clients. Calm and focused at all times. I thoroughly recommend him.’

‘The team led by Philippa Morgan is absolutely exceptional. Standout in its field. The knowledge base and breadth of experience is phenomenal.’

‘Joshua Roderick is a capable and talented solicitor with a strong client focus and excellent legal mind. He understands the intricacies and dynamics of complex cases and has an extremely promising career ahead. ’

Michelmores LLP

The family team at Michelmores LLP has considerable expertise in cross-border matters, advising a host of ultra-high net worth individuals on complex financial remedy proceedings as well as on pre- and post-nuptial agreements involving international assets and jurisdictional issues. Under the leadership of international family law expert Daniel Eames, the practice also handles complex cross-border financial disputes involving business and trust assets. Mental capacity work, Children Act proceedings, and cohabitation issues are key areas of focus for Sarah Green, while experienced mediator Pippa Allsop chiefly handles wealth protection matters. Laura Bond is an expert in private law children issues, including matters related to parental alienation and domestic abuse.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Eames


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Green; Pippa Allsop; Laura Bond; Rhiannon Anderson


Testimonials

‘Daniel Eames is a specialist in international family law cases and is good at thinking about the knotty legal problems that can arise. He is not afraid to give difficult advice to clients in tricky positions, but he will work hard to get them the best result possible and is not afraid to tackle an appeal if necessary. ’

‘The go to family law firm in the South West for big money cases and knotty international cases. The team has great strength at all levels. ’

‘Daniel Eames remains one of the best solicitors in England, not just the South West. His case load encompasses many London cases, usually complex big money cases. He brings a strategic mind to cases and always has a novel approach to resolving the disputes his clients find themselves in.  He is quite brilliant at complex European regulation and other international issues.  Pippa Allsop is a total star and an excellent solicitor. She runs her case effectively and with great charm. Her clients lover her.’

‘Excellent firm with a range of talent in complex jurisdictional family matters for private children and financial cases. The firm also has excellent partners and associates with experience in complicated legal cost funding applications, financial provisions for children, financial matters arising from divorce, and private children disputes.’

‘Daniel Eames is a leader in complicated international jurisdictional matters. Pippa Allsop is a superstar in complex financial matters.’

‘Sarah Green is a dream combination of down to earth user-friendliness and very high ability as a family lawyer.’

‘The family team one of the best in the area, with a well deserved reputation fantastic client care and strategic representation. They offer a high-level service that is then reflected in proceedings where bundles/pleadings are prepared immaculately and clients feel supported and confident. I am always delighted to work with Michelmores, knowing that the brief and papers will be immaculate and the client’s expectations well managed. ’

‘The family team at Michelmores has gone from strength to strength since being headed up by Daniel Eames. The team has expanded including by establishing a thriving office in Bristol. The family team at Michelmores have high quality work as a result of the excellent service the team provides. The team provides a high level of representation across the range of levels of seniority. Clients are represented by strong, determined solicitors who fight hard to secure the best outcome. ’

Work highlights


  • Acted for a French husband in proceedings in England brought by his former French wife.
  • Acted for a father in Family Law Act proceedings, Schedule 1 and Section 8 Children Act proceedings.

RWK Goodman

RWK Goodman's 'team of experts from top to bottom' is capable of handling the full range of family law matters, ranging from private financial, divorce and children matters to public children and care proceedings. The team maintains close relationships with high net worth clients, who rely on the team's expertise in alternative dispute resolution and ability to handle wealth protection matters and financial remedy proceedings involving complex cross-border assets, and it also acts for vulnerable clients in urgent proceedings related to domestic abuse. A consortium of lawyers head up the team: Richard Ellis handles public and private law children's cases, Katherine Lauder chiefly advises on private child arrangements and relocation matters, Jayne Martins is a key contact for financial remedies work, and Emma Young is very experienced in care proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Richard Ellis; Katherine Lauder; Jayne Martins; Emma Young


Other key lawyers:

Jon Toogood; Clizia Motterle


Testimonials

‘Clizia Motterle is a class act and a dream to work with. Her cases are always beautifully prepared, and I can always be satisfied that she has given the client realistic advice and managed their expectations. Her Italian language skills have been an asset in cases with an international element (i.e., international child arrangements disputes). Her calm and personable manner makes her adept at dealing with vulnerable clients in challenging cases.’

‘After decades, it is still Jon Toogood who is one of the best known practitioners in Bath. He has done everything and knows everything.’

‘RWK Goodman are a full-service law firm, which means clients often receive the benefit of a ‘whole team’ approach to their legal issues whilst benefitting from the knowledge, skills and experience of specialist financial remedy practitioners.’

‘Jayne Martins is an impressive practitioner with a laser-sharp focus and her finger on the pulse of a case in financial remedy matters. She is well-regarded amongst her peers.’

‘RWK Goodman are the ‘go to ‘ team for all family matters. They attract very complex cases and have excellent client care skills.’

‘This is a team of experts from top to bottom, possessing real strength in depth. Always committed to delivering a brilliant result for their clients. One of the best firms in the region. ’

‘Jayne Martins made every effort to help me navigate a difficult divorce. She is knowledgeable and professional, open and honest. I couldn’t have asked for better assistance.’

‘Katherine Lauder, has been absolutely amazing from the start she understood our case, she was very clear with her advise and executed all legal proceedings with great care. Her dedication to our case went above and beyond any expectations, we couldn’t have been in better hands than with her. I’m extremely grateful to her for her support in an extremely difficult situation. She deserves all the merit, and we could only wish there were more people like her in the world.’

Work highlights


Stephens Scown LLP

Stephens Scown LLP‘s family team is well-versed in both children and finance issues, fielding expertise in matters ranging from financial settlements in divorces and pre-nuptial agreements to complex public and private child and care work. Practice head Andrew Barton routinely advises on cross-border family finance matters and is noted for his ability to advise on financial settlements involving corporate, pension, and inherited wealth assets, while Sarah Atkinson is experienced in private FDRs and arbitration in the context of divorce proceedings. Mark Smith advises on children and care issues, including domestic abuse and relocation issues, and Thea Bennun handles financial remedy cases involving military pensions and family business assets. International family finance expert Lizzie Smith joined the newly opened Taunton office in November 2023 from Irwin Mitchell.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Barton


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Atkinson; Mark Smith; Thea Bennun; Sarah Walls; Bill Wilkins; Lizzie Smith; Sarah Bell; Sarah Hindle


Testimonials

‘The team at Stephens Scown are friendly and approachable. They are good at maintaining communication and ensuring that matters are handled efficiently. ’

‘The individuals really care about the work that they undertake and results from their clients. They put real time and effort into achieving the best outcome possible, while giving realistic advice when prospects are difficult. One gets the sense that they are really invested in the outcome of proceedings for clients and this shows up the quality of work done. ’

‘Lizzie Smith is a great solicitor who is a good team player.’

Work highlights


Ellis Jones Solicitors LLP

Ellis Jones Solicitors LLP’s family practice is particularly well-regarded for its handling of financial remedy proceedings for high net worth clients, including complex cases with family company, cross-border asset, trust, and pension sharing aspects. The team also maintains an active children law offering and is increasingly active in high-profile international child abduction and child relocation cases, owing to the expertise of Georgina Emerson and Katie Taft. Divorce and finance expert Deborah Leask co-heads the team with Sean McNally, who handles private FDRs as well as Children's Act proceedings. Matrimonial finance expert Ian Butterworth is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Deborah Leask; Sean McNally


Other key lawyers:

Katie Taft; Ian Butterworth; Georgina Emerson; Lauren Harley; Asya Panchalieva


Testimonials

‘Sean McNally and Deborah Leask provide the focus of the team. Sean has excellent client handing skills, is a shrewd negotiator and possesses good judgment. Deborah is a tenacious litigator with a thorough approach that invariably results in client loyalty satisfaction. Ian Butterworth brings a sharp intelligence and impressive legal ability to his cases.’

‘A very close-knit, happy firm that values its staff from junior associates through to senior partners. They are a pleasure to work with.’

‘Deborah Leask is very experienced and knowledgeable in financial remedies. She is tenacious, hard-working and will fight a client’s case to the end. Sean McNally has a wealth of experience and an easy manner that puts clients at ease. He often takes a pragmatic approach to cases that encourages settlement where appropriate.’

Work highlights


  • Advised a father in relation to a 1980 Hague Convention application for the summary return of his daughter to the Republic of South Africa and successfully obtained an order for her return.
  • Acted for a father in relation to a 1980 Hague Convention application for the summary return of his son to the Netherlands and secured the child’s return.

Irwin Mitchell

Irwin Mitchell‘s Bristol family practice regularly collaborates with the firm’s offices across the country to serve a varied base of clients, including high net worth entrepreneurs and professionals as well as vulnerable individuals. The team stands out for its expertise in cohabitation disputes as a result of practice head Erin Sawyer‘s expertise in TOLATA claims, and it is also regularly instructed to advise on financial remedy proceedings involving offshore assets, with a particular focus on US-UK matters. Jennifer Pollock is a key contact for domestic and international children’s proceedings as well as for cases involving domestic abuse or alienation. Connie Smith is also recommended for family finance matters.

Practice head(s):

Erin Sawyer


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Pollock; Connie Smith; Taler Kelly


Testimonials

‘Erin Sawyer is a first class litigator, fights her corner, good judgment.’

‘The firm is well respected, has the resources needed to be able to properly support clients, and provides excellent client care. ’

‘Jennifer Pollock stands out as someone who is on top of all her cases, working tirelessly for clients in a pragmatic way. She is well-organised and fully prepared for all eventualities. ’

‘One-stop family law team with excellent knowledge and client support. They are forward thinking and a cut above their competitors. ’

‘Efficient and well-regarded in their area.’

‘Connie Smith is extremely personable, efficient and organised.’

‘Jennifer Pollock has an excellent understanding of the law and she works extremely hard to achieve the best outcome for her clients. Jennifer ensures that her client’s cases are presented in the best possible way and she is tenacious in her pursuit of their objectives.’

‘Erin Sawyer and Connie Smith have been exceptional. ’

Work highlights


Steele Raymond LLP

Steele Raymond LLP‘s Bournemouth team is capable of handling the full gamut of family law matters, ranging from Children’s Act proceedings and TOLATA claims to mediation in the context of separations and financial remedy proceedings. The team is led by the ‘hardworking, thoroughly professional and hugely likableDaniel Sanders, who specialises in representing high net-worth clients in financial remedy cases involving business or trust assets and also acts in child abuse and abduction cases. Lindsay Halliwell is an experienced mediator who spearheads the team’s considerable alternative dispute resolution offering. Mediator Michelle Bettell is also well-regarded for her expertise in cohabitation disputes.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Sanders


Other key lawyers:

Lindsay Halliwell; Michelle Bettell; Amy Baugh


Testimonials

‘I like this firm’s family department, led by the hardworking, thoroughly professional and hugely likable Daniel Sanders.’

‘Lindsey Halliwell’s open, friendly manner is comforting to clients, to whom she provides a very professional service.’

‘Dedicated client care and well-considered advice. Highly recommended in the local area for complex financial remedy claims.’

Work highlights


Stone King LLP

Stone King LLP‘s team is ‘experienced in all areas of family law‘, acting on financial remedy matters as well as in cohabitation and children cases. The team maintains a sizeable public law offering, regularly representing children and parents in domestic and cross-border cases related to non-accidental injuries and human rights issues, and it also stands out for its alternative dispute resolution offering, receiving frequent instructions from high net worth clients to act in complex family finance mediation. Practice head Caroline Fell is well-versed in handling cross-border financial remedy cases, while experienced mediator Rebecca Eels is an expert on children and education law. Family finance expert Tracey Smith is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Fell


Other key lawyers:

Tracey Smith; Daniela Nickols; Rebecca Eels


Testimonials

‘Caroline Fell was calm, clear, comprehensive and incredibly emotionally intelligent through a very protracted process. She advocated for collaboration rather than adversity, and this has resulted in an outcome which meets the needs of all parties.’

‘Experienced in all areas of family law. Excellent client care and great knowledge of local practice.’

‘Rebecca Eels is personable, approachable and not afraid to give robust advice.’

‘The team provides an extremely high standard of representation. They are both knowledgeable and efficient, which results in the clients getting a superb service.’

‘Daniela Nickols is incredibly smart, diligent, fantastic on her feet in court and a formidable opponent. ’

‘Rebecca Eels and Caroline Fell are outstanding partners of vast experience.’

‘Daniela Nickols is sensible and knows what she is doing. Utterly dependable and reliable.’

‘The family practice at Stone King is a strong team of experienced family law specialists committed to providing a client-focused service. They have the perfect mix of professionalism and empathy.’

Work highlights


The Family Law Practice

The Family Law Practice is a boutique firm which handles a wide range of financial remedy proceedings, cohabitation claims, and private law children’s cases for married and unmarried clients across the country. Practice head and experienced mediator Ashley Palminteri routinely advises high net worth individuals on wealth protection matters and financial cases involving complex trusts and offshore assets. Elizabeth Bruce ‘combines excellent legal knowledge with commercial advice‘ in financial and divorce cases, and Mark Sage also stands out for his expertise in prenup and financial remedy matters. Georgina Kerby regularly acts in domestic violence cases and Children Act proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Ashley Palminteri


Other key lawyers:

Elizabeth Bruce; Mark Sage; Charlotte King; Georgina Kerby


Testimonials

‘Elizabeth Bruce has been incredible. She has been so supportive and sensitive at what has been such a difficult time for me. Elizabeth has made me feel secure in an environment and position I didn’t expect to find myself. I’ve felt completely supported. Charlotte King was also instrumental at the beginning of this journey and I’d like to thank her also for the support. ’

‘Friendly, knowledgeable team with great knowledge of the process. Had a great reputation with the mediator that we also used.’

‘Elizabeth Bruce has been brilliant to work with from the start. I feel like I get her support and empathy, but also an honest view managing realistic expectations.’

‘Elizabeth Bruce provided great support. Very good on the detail and very strategic. She provided clear practical advice that really helped me bring the settlement to a conclusion. A fantastic lawyer and very pleased to have had her help.’

‘Ashley Palminteri and Charlotte King are empathic, caring, and knowledgeable, and the attention to detail is second to none. I felt supported at every step, which is vital at such an emotional and stressful time.’

‘TFLP has a unique ability to relate to its clients. The client-solicitor relationship is rarely as strong as it is with The Family Law Practice. The team is hugely experienced. Nothing phases them, and they have a good feel for the strategy of the case based on their experience. ’

‘Ashley Palminteri is a standout performer within the firm, and has a commanding presence in oral and written argument. Clients love him. Georgina Kerby is a diligent and meticulous solicitor with a bright future ahead of her. Her preparation and knowledge of a case is usually second to none.’

‘Elizabeth Bruce is a fantastic lawyer who combines excellent legal knowledge with commercial advice and strong client care skills. She has a warm approach to clients which, combined with her pragmatic approach to the law, provides an excellent legal service. Mark Sage is a solid pair of hands, offering pragmatic advice and a reasonable approach. Charlotte King is an excellent solicitor with a growing reputation locally.’

TLT

TLT‘s ‘knowledgeable, caring, and resourceful‘ team provides ultra-high net worth individuals, entrepreneurs, rural property owners, and celebrities with integrated expertise in family and commercial law matters, allowing it to handle separations and asset protection matters involving landed estates, start-up company assets, or inherited wealth. Vulnerable clients also regularly instruct the team to act in protection cases surrounding sexual abuse or cyberstalking. Practice head Natalie Drew is a key contact for financial remedy work, though she also regularly handles private law children matters involving domestic abuse or parental alienation. Nick Cooper-Soderberg stands out for his knowledge of Australia-UK issues.

Practice head(s):

Natalie Drew


Other key lawyers:

Nick Cooper-Soderberg; Abigail Whelan


Testimonials

‘The team, and Natalie Drew in particular, are extremely responsive and caring. They remember the details of your case, always seeking to move forward for positive results. They manage to balance efficiency with detail in a remarkable way.’

‘Natalie Drew stands out. In my case, I was involved in a protracted and stressful case and Natalie understood the complexity. She has the perfect balance of empathy and problem-solving. She is always available and helpful. I feel lucky to have had TLT and especially Natalie during an extremely challenging period.’

‘Friendly, accessible and effective team where nothing is too much trouble and, despite many complications in my case, they have always gone above and beyond to make it as smooth a journey as possible. I had absolute trust that they would get the best possible outcome for me and their advice was always reasonable and reliable.’

‘Natalie Drew and Abigail Whelan are fantastic at what they do and I felt in very safe hands. They are definitely one step ahead of the other side! They do not miss a trick.’

‘The team led by Natalie Drew is well versed in dealing with the most complex matters involving high net worth cases. The firm itself is one of the most progressive and forward thinking in the South West. Combining commercial understanding with family law in a manner which is personable and measured isn’t easy, but TLT make it look so.’

‘Nick Cooper-Soderberg’s cross-jurisdictional background, experience, and incredibly affable nature makes him really stand out from his peers.’

‘Natalie Drew is tenacious, sharp and determined to fight her client’s corner to the end. ’

‘Knowledgeable, caring, and resourceful, the team at TLT provide a fantastic service to their clients. They do things properly from the beginning, leaving no stone unturned and ensuring information is provided in a timely manner. ’

Work highlights


VWV

VWV‘s Bristol team is led by Samantha Hickman, who has a ‘stellar reputation‘ for her wide-reaching knowledge of financial remedy, children, and cohabitation matters. An experienced mediator, Hickman is well-versed in alternative dispute resolution and is regularly instructed by clients with assets in multiple countries to advise on nuptial agreements and handle complex asset transfers. Hickman and private children law expert Katie Hanson also regularly act on Schedule 1 proceedings, child abduction and abuse issues, and parental alienation cases.

Practice head(s):

Samantha Hickman


Other key lawyers:

Katie Hanson; Alice Stephens-Mayor


Testimonials

‘VWV has a very strong team headed up by the fabulous Sam Hickman. Client care is a priority at VWV. The team are well resourced, prepared and know exactly what they are doing. ’

‘Samantha Hickman, who leads the Bristol team, has a stellar reputation. Sam is a shining example to her team on how to conduct family law cases.’

‘VWV is outstanding in the field of financial remedies and private law (children). The team is so personable and knowledgeable, without exception. Client care is exceptional.’

Work highlights


Barcan+Kirby LLP

Clients seek out Barcan+Kirby LLP‘s ‘dedicated, experienced, and caring‘ team for advice on issues ranging from family finance matters to public and private child care, child relocation, abduction, and domestic abuse cases. A consortium of lawyers lead the practice: Tom Powles is experienced with child and divorce proceedings, including ones involving allegations of abuse, and also advises on surrogacy matters as well as cases involving gender recognition questions. Kirsten Hale is regularly instructed to act on financial and cohabitation issues as well as child arrangements cases, Clare Cox spearheads the team’s care offering, and Charmaine Moger is well-versed in private law children matters.

Practice head(s):

Tom Powles; Kirsten Hale; Clare Cox; Charmaine Moger


Other key lawyers:

Chris Miller; Sarah Marshall


Testimonials

‘I feel they take care of every detail and make things as easy and stress-free as they can. Everyone I’ve been involved with have been so helpful and absolutely fantastic at their jobs.’

‘The team are all deeply committed to their clients and achieving the best outcome for them whether it is through settlement or a contested proceedings. I have seen the team go above and beyond to ensure the clients feel supported and well represented. They are organised in providing bundles and briefs, and I am always pleased to accept instructions from them as I know it will be a good working relationship. ’

‘Kirsten Hale combines a real strength in financial remedies with a genuine concern for her client. She manages cases and expectations really well whilst always striving for the best outcome.’

‘The practice adopt an extremely client-friendly approach. The comprise a large team with specialist expertise across all facets of Family Law, all of whom are extremely responsive. In addition, they have state-of-the-art offices which technologically accommodate high level in-person, hybrid and/or virtual conferencing facilities.’

‘Sarah Marshall is an exceptional family lawyer. Her ability to gain the trust of clients from all backgrounds is outstanding, as is her ability to explain the law in simple terms and to present a variety of options in relation to ways forward. ’

‘Excellent for both public and private law. Robust, pragmatic advice.’

‘The team at Barcan and Kirby LLP are excellent. They are very professional and efficient whilst also being compassionate. ’

‘The Barcan+Kirby Family Team are a dedicated. experienced and caring cohort whose focus on providing good, pragmatic and helpful advice is consistent regardless of whether the client is private paying or publicly funded. The team collaborate and discuss cases at their weekly meetings, which means the client gets the benefit of not just one lawyer’s experience but that of the whole team, providing a much wider pool of knowledge and experience. ’

Work highlights


Brigstow Family Law

Boutique firm Brigstow Family Law provides ‘exceptional family law advice‘ across the full range of divorce, children and cohabitation issues. The team regularly handles the financial aspects of complex relationship breakdowns involving cross-border and non-matrimonial assets, and it also specialises in private children’s matters involving allegations of domestic abuse or controlling behaviour. Sharon Mahmood and Bessie Hanson jointly head the team and are praised for their ‘pragmatic advice and exceptional client care skills‘ in both children and financial matters. Mary Gaskins joined the practice in July 2024.

Practice head(s):

Bessie Hanson; Sharon Mahmood


Other key lawyers:

Harriet Shaw; Mary Gaskins


Testimonials

‘Sharon Mahmood and Bessie Hanson are at the top of their game. They bring a wealth of experience to the table. Coupled with pragmatic advice and exceptional client care skills, they make a dream duo. They are a pleasure to work with. Harriet Shaw is a fabulous compliment to the team, adding her pragmatic approach, exceptional organisational skills and thorough approach to her cases.’

‘Bessie Hanson is a first-rate solicitor. She is thoughtful and able to analyse a case from many angles. She is accessible, pragmatic and helpful. A great solicitor.’

‘Sharon Mahmood is one of the hardest-working and most conscientious financial remedy practitioners you will find. She goes over and above for her clients time after time, and gets incredible results. Clients love her, and the firm’s client base continues to grow as a result.’

Work highlights


Foot Anstey

Renowned private wealth advisor Jessica Pitt leads the ‘efficient, effective and clear‘ team at Foot Anstey, which is noted for its strong capabilities in handling financial remedy matters involving family-owned businesses and/or farms and rural properties. Working with a host of high net worth individuals locally and nationally, Pitt is active on wealth protection matters in the context of divorces and nuptial agreements, while Emily Botham routinely handles divorces involving cohabitation, children, and safeguarding issues. Georgia Day is also highly recommended.

Practice head(s):

Jessica Pitt


Other key lawyers:

Emily Botham; Georgia Day


Testimonials

‘The practice has many experts in different fields and are very knowledgeable.’

‘Client-focused and responsive to clients needs and sensibilities.’

‘Jessica Pitt was particularly good in dealing with my case. Calm, balanced and professional.’

‘From my very first call with Jessica Pitt, I felt supported and at ease. She helped to calm me in what I thought would be an awkward situation. Jessica has been able to call upon colleagues from different departments, should she need more specialized advice.’

‘Jessica Pitt has been an absolute star. She is very professional and has exceptional knowledge of the legalities of cases such as mine.’

‘A very good and effective team that is efficient, effective and clear. They are able to deal with family issues in a sympathetic manner while giving clear and concise advice. ’

‘Jessica Pitt and Georgia Day are friendly and collaborative to work with. They have a commercial approach to nuptial agreements, and we regularly work together well on these agreements. Their approach is very sensible and open.’

‘A strong team led by Jessica Pitt, who is very experienced, knowledgeable, and always pragmatic. ’

Work highlights


Goughs Solicitors

Goughs Solicitors is well-regarded for its alternative dispute resolution expertise, which it regularly applies in matrimonial finance and cohabitation cases involving clients with complex assets. The team also routinely handles Schedule 1 Children Act proceedings as well as other child arrangements and relocation cases. Practice head Thomas Boyce handles high net worth divorce cases, especially those involving farming families, while Matthew Drew is noted for his ability to provide pensions advice in financial remedy proceedings. Ross Phillips chiefly advises on TOLATA cases.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Boyce


Other key lawyers:

Matthew Drew; Ross Phillips; Mark Hood; Natalie Kemp


Testimonials

‘You cannot go wrong with a lawyer from Goughs – they have a consistently excellent service.’

‘The team are all deeply committed to their clients and achieving the best outcome for them whether it is through settlement or a contested proceedings. As a firm they combine expertise in family law with a high degree of professionalism and fantastic client care. They achieve fantastic outcomes for clients whilst ensuring they feel supported along the way.

‘A lovely team who are willing to go above and beyond for clients. ’

Work highlights


Harbour Family Law

The boutique all-women team at Harbour Family Law is very active in private law financial and children matters and is praised for its ‘collaborative, non-confrontational approach‘. Clients regularly instruct the team to represent them in financial remedy proceedings involving business assets, advise on TOLATA claims, and act in complex Children’s Act proceedings related to allegations of abuse and controlling behaviour. Founding director Katy Zikking handles a diverse range of divorce and child arrangement matters and co-heads the team with Nicky Howarth, who stands out for her experience in matrimonial finance matters.

Practice head(s):

Katy Zikking; Nicky Howarth


Other key lawyers:

Fiona Greener; Ros White; Emma Gordon; Hannah Holdaway


Testimonials

‘The team at Harbour Family Law are very professional and supportive, having always given good advice. ’

‘Katy Zikking is a consummate professional who has worked tirelessly to help us with the utmost diligence throughout my case. Katy really took the time to understand me, my case, and the significant challenges my family. She has always been very supportive, taken the time to deeply consider and reflect upon issues and gave the very best child-centric advice to achieve the very best outcomes for my children and I.’

‘The team specialise in Family Law and take a collaborative, non-confrontational approach.’

‘Hannah Holdaway has a focused approach, concentrating on the things that matter the most. She has a non-confrontational style, is approachable and provides timely updates and advice when needed.’

‘Friendly, reassuring, professional, knowledgeable and reliable.’

‘Katy Zikking is an exemplary solicitor. She has vital emotional intelligence and exhibits and encourages healthy boundaries, making the chaos and challenges less in what can be very emotive matters. Katy shows commitment to your case and shows in both her interactions and efforts in your legal matters that she takes her role of representing your best interests seriously.’ 

‘The team provide a top-rate service to clients and they are very well respected. ’

‘Nicky Howarth is an excellent lawyer. Her attention to detail, exceptional client care and pragmatic manner helps drive a case forward, achieving the best result for the client.’

Work highlights


Harrison Clark Rickerbys

The Cheltenham family team at Harrison Clark Rickerbys chiefly represents clients in financial remedy proceedings, with a particular focus on cases involving business structures, inherited assets, and pensions. Carolyn Green co-heads the team and regularly acts in complex FDR proceedings involving non-disclosure and molestation issues, while co-head James Grigg handles a large volume of private Children Act proceedings. Andrew Morris boasts ‘an enviable reputation for financial remedy work‘ and is also well-versed in cohabitation claims and private children law issues, and James Shorrock handles high-value family finance matters.

Practice head(s):

Carolyn Green; James Grigg


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Morris; James Shorrock


Testimonials

‘Carolyn Green and James Grigg are as experienced as any practitioners- they have been at the firm for years and provide excellence. James Shorrock is one of the best of his generation.’

‘The team’s strength is in its size and its ability to service a wide spectrum of work, including acting for high net worth individuals. ’

‘James Grigg is outstanding. He keeps his finger on the pulse by still undertaking some of his own advocacy in Court. Carolyn Green is incredibly experienced and her advice is always sound. Carolyn ensures that her client’s case is presented for success.’

‘Andrew Morris has an enviable reputation for financial remedy work, and manages to combine tactical acumen with a robust approach. ’

‘The Family Team at HCR is highly professional and experienced, and provides much reassurance to clients who are often undergoing very stressful times in their lives. ’

‘Carolyn Green, the lead partner in the team, epitomises its strong values, and her knowledge and experience in this field are evident.’

‘An experienced team committed to their client’s best interests.’

‘Andrew Morris is an experienced lawyer who will fight hard for his clients and give clear advice on tactical approach.’

Work highlights


Nash & Co

In addition to its expertise in financial remedy matters, Nash & Co’s Plymouth family team is capable of taking on both public and private children law cases. The practice specialises in niche domestic abuse issues, regularly acting for clients in divorce and financial proceedings involving allegations of physical abuse and coercive control, and it also handles a large volume of care proceedings related to non-accidental injuries. Eleanor Barber heads up the firm’s matrimonial and family law offering and is well-versed in financial and domestic abuse matters, while Helen Bull leads the care team.

Practice head(s):

Eleanor Barber; Helen Bull


Other key lawyers:

Gemma Stevens; Anne Shears


Work highlights


Porter Dodson LLP

Porter Dodson LLP‘s family team maintains both a divorce and financial remedies offering and an active child law offering, with clients benefitting from the large practice’s breadth of expertise in public and private matters. Practice head Richard Baker spearheads the team’s financial offering and is routinely instructed by high net worth individuals with domestic and overseas business assets to act in private FDRs, while Rebecca Marshall is a key contact for private and public law child issues, including care work and Children Act proceedings. Cathryn Smith is an expert on pensions issues in divorces.

Practice head(s):

Richard Baker


Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Marshall; Cathryn Smith; Zoe Gaitskell; Ellen Saunders


Testimonials

‘The company is highly regarded locally and has a range of solicitors and advisers with a wide range of backgrounds and a lot of experience.’

‘I found the practice to be represented by highly knowledgeable and diverse staff. Their strengths are communication, empathy and peaceable advice. Throughout the whole process of my divorce, my solicitor kept me grounded but showed compassion.’

‘Zoe Gaitskell’s calmness and ability to put me at ease was invaluable. Her knowledge and ability to explain the process in a way that didn’t leave me confused or stressed was fantastic.’

‘Genuinely caring and understanding.’

‘Porter Dodson is blessed with an impressive group of people who are extremely capable and care about their clients.’

‘Rebecca Marshall is an excellent solicitor – she is efficient, diligent and bright. Hugely impressive.

‘Zoe Gaitskell is a calming and impressive partner. She brings good sense, empathy and a powerful intellect to her cases. No stone is left unturned and she is tenacious on behalf of her clients. She has extremely good instincts and great client care. I have recommended her personally.’

‘Richard Baker is a knowledgeable and skillful lawyer. He is someone with whom you need to bring your A-game. He is very commercially astute.’

Work highlights


Stowe Family Law LLP

With six offices across the region, Stowe Family Law LLP is well-equipped to handle all manner of private law family issues for a broad roster of clients, standing out in particular for its expertise in high net worth and cross-border financial remedies cases, cohabitation matters, and child arrangements cases. Cheltenham partner Louise Chipchase leads the practice and is well-versed in matrimonial finance and child relocation matters, while Swindon contact Joanna Newton stands out for her work in relation to Schedule 1 Children Act proceedings and financial remedy proceedings involving offshore assets.

Practice head(s):

Louise Chipchase


Other key lawyers:

Joanna Newton; Amy Langford; Rachel Fisher; Zoe Carter; Lucy Chandler; Katy Jordan


Testimonials

‘Stowe Family Law often seem to go the extra mile for their clients. They will make their clients feel as comfortable as possible with approaching court hearings by arranging conferences with counsel and by attending the hearings with counsel to provide the clients with additional reassurance.’

‘There is a depth and breadth to the Stowe Family team that is hugely helpful to clients.’

‘Lucy Chandler is an excellent solicitor with extensive experience in financial remedies, including complex and high value matters. She is very focused and empathetic.  Louise Chipchase has experience in all aspects of family law. I have found her to be very well prepared and knowledgeable in financial remedies matters. ’

‘A great firm providing excellent service to clients. Professional in their approach.’

‘Lucy Chandler is professional, yet personable. Someone you can rely on to provide top-quality advice and to efficiently prepare a case for court.  Katy Jordan is reliable and respectable. Takes the time to ensure that a client understands the process from beginning to end. Both of these solicitors are people that you want in your corner.’

‘Clients appreciate Stowe Family Law’s collaborative approach, which ensures comprehensive solutions and a smoother divorce process.’

‘The team have a strong regional presence, and for a good reason. They have a strong private children law team. ’

‘Rachel Fisher is very experienced and good at dealing with clients who are having an emotional or otherwise challenging divorce. Joanna Newton is a hands on family practitioner who is warm and approachable. ’

Work highlights


Thrings LLP

Drawing on a strong firmwide reputation for agricultural cases, the family team at Thrings LLP is regularly instructed by clients with high-value farm assets to advise on asset protection and finance matters, including prenups and complex financial remedy proceedings. The team also regularly advises on public sector divorces and separations involving significant international business assets. Children Act matters, including child abduction cases, are a particular area of focus for practice head Matthew Kellow, while Fiona Kellow has a broad practice that includes parental alienation cases. Anna Patterson stands out for her expertise in family farming matters.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Kellow


Other key lawyers:

Fiona Kellow; Anna Patterson; Kathryn Bew; Tara Connor-McLaren; Zhenja Cann; Hannah Stretton


Testimonials

‘So impressed with Thrings family team. Fantastic professional company who worked very hard to give me the best outcome in both children and financial proceedings.’

‘The partners and associates are compassionate, patient, yet highly professional at all times.’

‘They care about the outcome, care about their work, and care about their clients.

‘Thrings’ emphasis on collaboration ensures client-centric solutions, simplifying the divorce process and delivering peace of mind to clients.’

‘The Thrings LLP Family Team are a joy to work with. They are well-prepared, knowledgeable, and have a can-do attitude. Clients benefit from the collaborative approach they adopt.’

‘Zhenja Cann is a truly exceptional young lawyer and I look forward to watching her go from strength to strength. Able to calm, reassure and most importantly gain the trust and co-operation of even the most demanding client. Zhenja gets great results whilst ensuring she manages expectations from the outset. ’

‘Zhenja Cann is great – has dealt with extremely difficult cases and opponents without flinching. Gives good advice and good client support.’

‘Thrings are extremely knowledgeable about family law and all the team consistently give excellent and practical advice. The attention to detail they bring to each client’s case and the investment of time in reaching the right outcome are their USP.’

Work highlights


Tozers Solicitors LLP

Tozers Solicitors LLP regularly acts on divorce and financial matters and also maintains an active care offering, allowing the team to represent children and guardians in public proceedings. The team is also very active in Children Act proceedings concerning child relocations and allegations of domestic abuse. Caroline Ryan, an expert on complex finance cases involving public sector pensions, heads up the practice's private family offering, while children law expert Tony Wood leads the practice's care team. Further key contacts include care and domestic abuse law expert Mark Williams as well as financial remedies specialist Aimee Aspinall.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Ryan; Tony Wood


Other key lawyers:

Mark Williams; Aimee Aspinall; Fiona Wadey; Ricky Noble; Bea Taylor


Testimonials

‘Fiona Wadey is a very good financial remedy practitioner with a level head and strong instincts.’

‘Aimee Aspinall’s strength is attention to detail. She was always ready to advise me on the best course of action in a somewhat protracted case that lasted longer than expected.’

‘Caroline Ryan worked hard to get a good outcome for my divorce, which I wouldn’t have been able to do without her legal advice. I found some of the processes confusing, but she was able to talk me through these and help me to understand how it worked. She was very firm but fair when dealing with the other side, which meant we could get a good agreement. ’

‘Fiona Wadey is an extremely knowledgeable & competent professional. Her understanding of my case & how it would be best conducted gave me total confidence & reassurance throughout my divorce negotiations. My questions & queries were answered quickly, which put my mind at ease on many occasions. She showed great empathy & sensitivity during some challenging times for me. Her communications were easily understood.’

‘Accurate and forthright advice. Work hard for clients.’

Work highlights


Walker Family Law

Experienced mediator and child law arbitrator Ian Walker heads up the family law offering at boutique firm Walker Family Law together with divorce and financial remedies specialist Fiona Griffin and child law expert Emma Perkins. The team is well-regarded for its experience handling private FDRs for clients with offshore assets and mediation in the context of cohabitation disputes, and it increasingly acts for both clients in divorces using the Resolution Together model. Child abduction and abuse cases are a further area of focus.

Practice head(s):

Ian Walker; Fiona Griffin; Emma Perkins


Other key lawyers:

Lucy Roberts; Paul Sykes


Testimonials

‘Paul Sykes is a truly conscientious solicitor who will very much fight his clients corner but will also provide clear and robust advice as to the strengths and weaknesses of their case. He is a calm and reassuring presence which is very much a strength when dealing with the , often, fraught and emotional family law cases that he is so experienced in dealing with.’

‘Lucy Roberts is a star individual for child abduction/international children work. Leader in the field, very experienced and knowledgeable in this specialist area of family law.’

‘Fiona Griffin is an excellent solicitor. She is extremely conscientious and has great attention to detail.’

‘The firm is forward-thinking in its approach, offering a full spectrum of family law from public law proceedings through to mediation, arbitration, collaborative and Resolution Together.’

‘Ian Walker has been innovative in his approach to expanding his business and making it efficient and meet the needs of his clients and employees/consultants. He has attracted to his business many experienced and skilled family lawyers.’

‘The standard of work and client care is first class. They are all very knowledgeable and work very hard. They cut through the issues and manage client expectations very well. ’

‘This is a knowledgeable, reliable and good-natured team in which clients can trust for sound advice.’

‘Emma Perkins goes above and beyond for her clients. She is incredibly well prepared and child focused.

Work highlights


  • Advised both husband and wife on resolving the financial matters arising from the breakdown of their relationship using the groundbreaking Resolution Together practice model, whereby one solicitor represents both of the couple.
  • Represented a wife in divorce proceedings involving substantial property and business assets, including within the European Union and Indonesia, and utilised a Private Financial Dispute Resolution Meeting to achieve a negotiated settlement.
  • Acted for a mother in an application under the 1980 Hague Convention for summary return of her son abducted to the UK from Singapore.

Willans LLP

Willans LLP's Cheltenham-based practice works with high net worth business owners, professionals, and celebrities to handle children and financial matters. The team is well-versed in family finance cases involving farm and family business assets as well as offshore assets. Practice head Sharon Giles handles financial cases and cohabitation agreements and is an expert on alternative dispute resolution, including private FDRs, though she also acts in children and enforcement disputes as well as on surrogacy matters. Jonathan Eager and Kristie Silsby also handle a wide range of financial remedy matters.

Practice head(s):

Sharon Giles


Other key lawyers:

Jonathan Eager; Kristie Silsby; Joeli Boxall


Testimonials

‘Willans are well-respected with good capabilities. They often accompany counsel to court, which is great for both the client and for the barrister. The collaborative aspect is brilliant and cannot be overlooked.’

‘Jonathan Eager and Joeli Boxall are great. Jonathan is a brilliant personality but respectful and trusting of counsel and that comes through to the clients as well. He works hard at advising and guiding his clients through difficult cases and securing the best results.’

‘Great firm of sensible, pragmatic family lawyers. Always helpful to know they are on a case as there is a good chance of settling the case and enabling the clients to move on with their lives far more quickly.’

Work highlights


GA Solicitors

GA Solicitors combines experience in private client and public law matters to represent local clients in financial remedy proceedings, private law children and cohabitation matters, as well as public and legal aid cases related to abuse and non-accidental injury. Michelle Grove leads the team and has extensive experience with TOLATA claims and private FDRs, while Andrew Wonnacott deals with a range of specialist child and care proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Michelle Grove


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Wonnacott; Gloria Dyer; Amanda Lyons; Angela Timbrell


Testimonials

‘The family team combines experience and willingness to fearlessly represent clients with pragmatism and empathy.’

‘Angela Timbrell is a committed and hard working lawyer, who strives to help her clients. Andrew Wannacott is sensible, pragmatic and respected by colleagues. The Family Team as a whole provide an excellent range of skill sets and are good with clients.’

‘GA Solicitors have strength in depth in their experienced family team. They have experience in a wealth of areas and all Children Act matters. ’

‘Amanda Lyons is well-known locally as a very safe pair of hands in all private children and financial remedy matters. Her cases are always meticulously prepared, and her clients thoroughly and realistically advised. She is a real asset to the firm and the region. ’

‘Michelle Grove is kind, thoughtful and extremely good at her job. I felt secure in the knowledge that she was doing her level best for me and my interests. ’

‘Michelle Grove is exceptional. Fantastic foresight, prompt at dealing with issues, caring, knowledge with superb people skills, puts you at ease, trustworthy. Total confidence in her ability & judgement.’

‘This is a team where the ethos is to go above and beyond for their clients. They always advocate strongly for their clients’ needs in my experience. I’ve found them to be particularly good at supporting vulnerable people, including those with a history of trauma and those with learning issues. ’

‘I particularly value working with Angela Timbrell, for her kindness and patience with public law clients. I always feel she listens carefully and has a really compassionate approach to her work. Angela is particularly skilled at representing mothers with learning issues. I also enjoy working with Andrew Wonnacott. He always makes strong effort to build a personal relationship with his clients and makes every effort to ensure that their needs are met when making arrangements for psychological assessments.’

Work highlights


Hartnell Chanot & Partners

Hartnell Chanot & Partners acts on a wide range of family law issues, including finance proceedings involving pensions, business, and agricultural assets, surrogacy cases, as well as public and private children matters. While practice co-heads Norman Hartnell and Rachel Buckley specialise in divorce and finance issues and offer clients considerable expertise in alternative dispute resolution, Imran Khodabocus and Grace Bradley handle complex child abduction, abuse, and forced marriage cases. Jane Chanot is also a key contact for finance work with jurisdictional issues.

Practice head(s):

Norman Hartnell; Rachel Buckley


Other key lawyers:

Imran Khodabocus; Grace Bradley; Jane Chanot; Carrie Laws


Testimonials

‘The team is approachable and always puts its clients first. They are experts in what they do and provide honest high quality advice.’

‘Rachel Buckley is an expert in the field and is always well organised and on top of her case load. She has a brilliant rapport with her clients who trust her implicitly. ’

‘Jane Chanot has been absolutely brilliant.’

Work highlights


Lester Aldridge LLP

Financial remedy proceedings are a key area of focus for the family practice at Lester Aldridge LLP, though the team is also capable of handling complex children law issues and advising unmarried couples on cohabitation matters. The team is well-versed in matters with an international dimension, allowing it to regularly act on child relocation matters and represent clients with offshore assets in financial disputes. Practice head Rosemary Sharp chiefly advises high net worth clients on divorce and asset protection matters.

Practice head(s):

Rosemary Sharp


Other key lawyers:

Laura George; Giuseppe Pingerna


Testimonials

‘A comprehensive and highly competent team who handle all cases with the same passionate commitment to their clients. Clients never feel anything other than incredibly well looked after and represented.’

‘Excellent client care and an ability to keep counsel involved in the case throughout. ’

‘Rosemary Sharp is stand out. She is hard working, runs a clear and concise case, and is brilliant with clients. I love working with her as she just makes it so easy.’

‘Lester Aldridge LLP is a welcoming firm where clients feel at ease discussing matters that are legally and practically difficult. The clients receive an approach that puts them at ease. They know the law and practice with precision and know where to signpost clients for expert reports and for moral support. ’

‘Rosemary Sharp is an excellent solicitor. She is extremely pragmatic and always keep her eyes on what the client seeks to achieve. She provides realistic expectations to her clients which manages their finances, emotions and times towards an appropriate result. ’

‘The team at Lester Aldridge is strong, with a depth and variety of experiences to enable clients to have representation which reflects the complexity or uniqueness of their case.’

‘Rosemary Sharp is excellent. She has great attention to detail and is very client-focused.’

Work highlights


Shakespeare Martineau LLP

Divorce and wealth protection matters represent a cornerstone of Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s family law practice, which routinely represents high net worth clients in complex financial remedy proceedings involving rural properties, family businesses, and overseas assets. Practice head James Myatt offers clients longstanding expertise in pension and divorce matters and is also well-versed in drafting pre- and postnuptial as well as cohabitation agreements. Kit O’Brien extends the practice’s offering to encompass TOLATA work and Children Act proceedings, while Alice Gibson handles private law children matters.

Practice head(s):

James Myatt


Other key lawyers:

Kit O’Brien; Rachel Pritchard; Alice Gibson


Testimonials

‘James Myatt is extremely experienced and brings a wealth of knowledge to any case. ’

‘James Myatt is of Bristol’s best known solicitors who has excellent contacts. Clients really trust him.’

‘James Myatt is technically very good and a pleasure to deal with. He is very experienced and will always do his best for his clients. Kit O’Brien is always fighting her client’s corner and is experienced enough to know the practical benefits of her arguments.’

‘Kit O’Brien is an excellent family lawyer and you know that when she is instructed she will give sound legal advice. She is realistic and pragmatic.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau have a team with a good breath of knowledge and they invest in building their junior lawyers. The team is approachable and work well with other solicitors to ensure that cases are dealt with fairly and proportionately.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau are a team that you can pick the phone up to. They do not shy away from discussing matters openly with other solicitors to ensure that key issues are narrowed at the outset.’

Work highlights


Trethowans LLP

With offices in Salisbury and Poole, the team at Trethowans LLP represents clients throughout the region in divorce, financial remedy, and child law proceedings. Andrew Mercer co-leads the family team and regularly acts for high net worth and entrepreneurial clients through alternative dispute resolution, while co-head Kimberley Davies advises on reproduction and surrogacy matters in addition to acting in complex abuse cases. Emma Wilders-Pratt, who handles complex financial matters and advises clients on Child Arrangements Orders, joined the Salisbury team from the firm’s Winchester office in April 2024.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Mercer; Kimberley Davies


Other key lawyers:

Emma Wilders-Pratt


Testimonials

‘Kimberley Davies is exceptional and I’d have no hesitation in recommending her to anyone.’

‘All staff worked professionally and showed compassion and care throughout. They always ensured I was fully informed about the process and what options were going forward. They work very well as a team. ’

‘This firm has a very good relationship with its clients, which is exceptionally important. Clients trust this firm and receive excellent legal advice. ’

‘Andrew Mercer is excellent in his field and clients trust his advice. Mr. Mercer is clearly very established in his fields and is always available when I need to consult him about a particular point.’

‘Trethowans is exceptionally organised and gives clear and robust advice. Clients are listened to and advised in a sensible way. If litigation can be avoided they are guided through alternative options. Clients always have a solid understanding of the risks involved in litigation, they are well prepared for court and what can happen. ’

‘Probably one of the largest and most highly regarded family law teams in the South West. Headed up by Andrew Mercer. An excellent team has been carefully put together and the collaboration between them all is a joy to experience.’

‘Andrew Mercer is a stellar individual having built up the family team exponentially over the last 25years. He is an excellent and highly respected team head. His calm approach and excellent leadership skills are second to none. His knowledge of the law and practice is among the best around. Emma Wilders-Pratt’s commitment to achieving the best for clients is first rate. Clients value her unerring support and her empathy. Great attention to detail.’

‘Kimberley Davies is a dedicated and experienced solicitor; exactly the sort of person a client needs for complex and emotionally charged cases. She is sympathetic but also provides realistic advice and she is a joy to work with and be instructed by.’

Work highlights


Wards Solicitors LLP

Wards Solicitors LLP handles a wide range of family finance matters, including divorce proceedings as well as pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and also advises clients on private law children matters in relation to child living arrangements and allegations of abuse. The team is also capable of providing specialist advice on cohabitation matters and same-sex parenting matters. Alison Bradley leads the team and offers clients extensive mediation expertise in financial matters.

Practice head(s):

Alison Bradley


Other key lawyers:

Mandy McCabe; Louise Boustead; Sylvie Feltham; Emma Willott; Jessica Williams; Amy Jones


Testimonials

‘My experience of this practice is extremely favourable. Their strengths lie in their ability to listen to the client and develop a plan that suits the needs of that client. I have found them to be very sensitive, caring and completely non-judgmental.’

‘Mandy McCabe is very professional, yet kind and sensitive to my situation. I would like to say thank you to Mandy for her kindness, sensitivity, compassion and support. I really feel I am lucky to have found her.’

‘Wards are a very professional firm with a personal touch, whereby you feel you can be relaxed and ask any question. They are always swift to respond to you and also swift to reply to the other parties involved.’

Work highlights


Wolferstans

Wolferstans‘ family team offers its clients ‘an extraordinary breadth of skills and expertise‘, acting routinely in divorce and financial remedy proceedings involving high-value assets as well as in public and private law children cases. Andrew Dodd stands out in particular for his representation of children through their guardians in care proceedings related to allegations of abuse and parental neglect. Alison Challacombe is also well-versed in care, adoption, and child abduction matters, while practice head Vikki Martin regularly advises on divorce and separation matters as well as on prenuptial and postnuptial agreements.

Practice head(s):

Vikki Martin


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Dodd; Alison Challacombe; Rebecca Moloney; Angela Parsons


Testimonials

‘This practice has an extraordinary breadth of skills and expertise. I have made use of their skills on several occasions and have been continually impressed by their professionalism and thesis that the client always comes first. Vikki Martin is one of the most intelligent and intuitive individuals that I have ever dealt with. ’

‘Vikki Martin’s integrity and people management skills make her an ideal person to be leading cases where there are breakdowns of relationships, many involving children.’

‘The most valued aspect for me from day one of my dealings with Wolferstans family services has been their holistic and compassionate approach, acknowledging and supporting the very personal and emotional impacts of relationship breakdown alongside clear, honest and knowledgeable professional advice.’

‘Andrew Dodd is a highly skilled and experienced children’s lawyer who I regularly instruct due to his tenacious attention to detail but with an authoritative, calm reflective approach. He always gives me excellent legal advice. I consider him to be an outstanding solicitor who is reliable and responsive.’

‘Andrew Dodd and Alison Challacombe are a phenomenal team who truly understand the pressures within family law and the need to work in a timely manner. Andrew and Alison are team players who work for children in care proceedings. Both of them understand the law and case law in relation to this area.’

‘Andrew Dodd is one of the most thorough and patient solicitors I work with. He is thoughtful and highly empathic. Children of all ages relate well to Andrew, and he is especially good with teenagers. Andrew’s advocacy is always well thought out and spot on.’

‘All the solicitors are very knowledgeable, organized and responsive. ’

‘I have worked with Alison Challacombe and Andrew Dodd, who are both excellent solicitors and great advocates for children and young people. ’

Work highlights


Wollens

Experienced divorce and finance specialist Rebecca Procter heads up the team at Wollens, which is also well-regarded for its private and public children’s law work, particularly in relation to allegations of non-accidental child injuries. Procter stands out for her ability to advise clients with valuable farming assets and/or public sector pensions in financial remedy proceedings, while Rachel Carter regularly represents clients in legally aided care proceedings. David Kendall chiefly represents children through their guardians in public proceedings, while Deborah Baker handles wealth protection work and acts on child relocation and parental alienation cases.

Practice head(s):

Rebecca Procter


Other key lawyers:

Rachel Carter; David Kendall; Deborah Baker; Elizabeth Foster; Cate Jewell; Victoria Harle


Testimonials

Wollens is approachable and a welcoming and supportive space. This is especially important when dealing with family law, as these can be highly emotive cases.’

‘Deborah Baker’s wealth of knowledge is evident in how she has dealt with my cases. Deborah is realistic, grounded and professional throughout, while also managing to be sympathetic, encouraging and supportive in moments where needed. I wouldn’t hesitate to take her advice. ’

‘A good firm with a range of quality solicitors.’

‘They have an incredible win ratio. Nothing is too much. They are relentlessly efficient on the ball and up to date.’

‘Rachel Carter is a true specialist in her field. She deals with the most serious and difficult cases around. She has amazing knowledge of this field of law and is tenacious in her pursuit of justice. The quality of her instructions, her communication skills, and her rapport with clients is second to none. ’

‘The team has a national reputation for representing parents and other individuals in complex care proceedings where there are allegations of injuries being caused to children. They have a wealth of specialist knowledge in this difficult area of law, ensuring quality advice and representation, and are also friendly and approachable providing support to their client’s throughout the difficult court process. ’

‘Rachel Carter and Victoria Harle are leaders in their field, providing a no-nonsense, understandable, straightforward way of providing support and ensuring that their clients understand the process throughout.’

‘Rachel Carter and Victoria Harle are excellent. They know how this works. They are efficient, professional, understanding and absolutely committed to achieving justice.’

Blanchards Bailey LLP

Blanchards Bailey LLP‘s Dorset team chiefly advises military and agricultural families on financial and child matters, including divorces with military pensions and rural property assets as well as Children’s Act proceedings related to abuse and child abduction. Laura Martin heads up the team and focuses on financial remedy matters as well as on prenuptial and cohabitation agreements, while Julie Keogh is experienced with private law children proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Laura Martin


Other key lawyers:

Julie Keogh


Testimonials

‘Excellent knowledge in their field. Always happy to assist and help with any questions or issues. Well run, managed and efficient firm.’

‘Laura Martin is exceptional in her field. Knowledgeable, transparent and a highly motivated individual.’

‘I found Laura Martin to be very efficient with her knowledge and delivery in a very professional, business way.

‘The whole team have been committed and engaged with my case throughout, they have shown a clear understanding of the extensive records and information provided/exchanged, which is thoroughly reassuring.  They have been highly professional and efficient in all dealings, while being empathetic and providing advice and guidance in the best way for me.’

‘Laura Martin has been efficient and concise and has a clear understanding of all matters of the aspects she deals with and my wider case. Her reassuring guidance has been invaluable. Julie Keogh has been exceptional. Her breath and depth of knowledge and patience has helped me ensure that my case is as strong as it possible could be.’

‘Very straightforward, efficient and kind. Gave great advice but was also receptive to feedback and plans for the future.’

‘All the team are very approachable and helpful, even in the most difficult circumstances.’

‘The individuals I worked with were very understanding, made time for me and I really felt that they were listening to what I needed. ’

Coodes Solicitors

Coodes Solicitors‘ Cornwall-based practice handles a diverse caseload of financial remedy and children matters. The team regularly advises on financial proceedings in divorces involving agricultural, business, and/or pension assets, while its public and private child law work centers around domestic abuse and non-accidental injury matters. Family and civil law expert Sarah Evans heads the team, which is also home to financial disputes expert Karen Pritchard and children law specialist Victoria Walters.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Evans


Other key lawyers:

Karen Pritchard; Victoria Walters


Testimonials

‘Coodes’ staff understand the unique dynamics of domestic abuse and provide person-centred and trauma-informed support in challenging circumstances. There is an understanding of safety and working together to safeguard vulnerable families.’

‘The family team is a very well-established and stable team with a huge breadth and depth of experience. ’

‘Sarah Evans and Victoria Walters are exceptionally good at meeting the needs of clients, including vulnerable clients. They are skilled and experienced advocates and have sound judgment. ’

‘Coodes has a wide breath of experience in private family law across the board. The team are able to grasp complex cases easily and put clients at ease. They are able to provide a hands-on approach to clients, which is often not seen in other firms where clients do not have one main lawyer. Coodes are able to pick up cases swiftly and react to unforeseen issues calmly.’

‘Sarah Evans represents her clients fearlessly. Her preparation and grasp of the issues in the case and her knowledge stands out. It is always a pleasure to work with her.’

‘The Family team at Coodes are one of the leading firms in Cornwall for financial remedy work, with a reputation for having a highly knowledgeable team who are dedicated to getting the best for their clients.’

‘Karen Pritchard has a wealth of knowledge and experience of financial remedy work and provides her clients with sound and practical advice. She gets goods results.’

‘Sarah Evans is an intelligent and insightful lawyer but she combines this with compassion, exceptional client care and the judgment to know when to settle and when to fight. The total package. Victoria Walters always knows her cases inside out and has an excellent grasp of the nuances of the evidence, something which informs her ability to provide firm advice in a timely way.’

Work highlights


  • Advised a client in an application for a financial order in divorce, with assets consisting of a generational farm, residential properties, a farm partnership, and a business.
  • Advised a client on an application for financial orders, the enforcement of financial orders, and multiple family law act orders.
  • Advised a client in relation to a financial order upon divorce and in relation to assets both in England and Spain.

Frettens LLP

Frettens LLP‘s family team is capable of handling a large volume of financial remedy proceedings for clients holding family businesses, including agri-businesses. The team is also active in cases involving allegations of abuse or coercion, handling a divers array of child arrangements orders and Children Act applications. Andrew Stynes and Simon Immins respectively head up the teams from Christchurch and Ringwood.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Stynes; Simon Immins


Other key lawyers:

Olivia Le Masurier


Testimonials

‘Very patient, always willing to explain. Simon Immins is very good at what he does.’

‘A busy and thriving family department serving the local community.’

‘Andrew Stynes focusses on best interests of the client, encouraging them to resolve family disputes in the most appropriate manner, even if that means signposting them to other services such as mediation. Pragmatic and honest in the advice given.’

Work highlights


Kitson Boyce LLP

Kitson Boyce LLP resulted from the merger of Kitsons and Boyce Hatton in October 2023, forming a team of lawyers in Plymouth, Exeter and Torquay capable of handling high-value divorces and financial remedy proceedings as well as child arrangements and guardianship orders. The team is headed up by Plymouth lawyer Anthony Hunt, who is well-versed in financial and cohabitation issues as well as private law children’s matters.

Practice head(s):

Anthony Hunt


Other key lawyers:

Gary Watson; Kate Barton


Testimonials

‘My solicitor was efficient and answered all questions I had.’

‘We found Kate Barton to be outstanding, very knowledgeable, and super efficient. Whenever we had any questions, they were always dealt with very efficiently and responded to immediately.’

‘Kitson Boyce offer an extremely professional service and compared to other firms we have dealt with we would highly recommend them. ’

Work highlights