Vanderpump & Sykes

Family and Matrimonial

Partner

I qualified as a Solicitor in September 1998, specialising in Family Law, as this was an area that I had found the most interesting when training. I initially began my career at a large regional firm in Buckinghamshire and practiced in that location for 12 years. Wanting a new challenge, I moved to Vanderpump & Sykes in January 2012.

My work these days covers all aspects of family disputes, ranging from arguments as to how to resolve financial matters when the parties are going through a divorce or separation, to what arrangements should be in place for a parent to see their son or daughter. I also have a great deal of practical experience when it comes to matters concerning children.

I also undertake domestic violence work to try and help ensure that victims of domestic abuse have the proper protection in place to allow them to go about their day-to-day life without fear.

In recent years, Family Law has evolved further and there has been a marked increase in the number of unmarried couples that I have been advising, both in relation to children and financial matters. It is important, in all cases, that clients get the right advice early on, so that they can move forward in a pragmatic and proactive fashion. Managing client expectations from the outset is an extremely important aspect of my job.

As a Member of Resolution I am committed to trying to resolve family disputes in a constructive and non-confrontational manner. I am an advocate of trying to resolve matters outside of the Courtroom, if possible, believing that a far better outcome for the client will usually be achieved by negotiation and discussion, rather than having a decision imposed on them by a Judge.

Solicitor, Member of the LLP, Member of Resolution.