Birketts LLP has ‘an empathetic and hardworking team across all of its offices. The Ipswich office is home to practice head Katie Beaven (who is ’great with clients and good with case strategy') and legal directors Juliet Harvey, who is ‘dynamic and client-focused' and serves as the national chair of Resolution, and Ivana Radovic, who stands out for financial and children matters. ’Patient and thoughtful' partner Sarah Overy is the key practitioner in Cambridge, where legal director Rachel Frost-Smith frequently advises high-net-worth individuals with offshore assets, entrepreneurs, and business owners. Newly promoted partner Denise Findlay, legal director Deborah Lloyd, and senior associate Lisa Cornish are the heart of the Norwich team.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘They have a big team of family lawyers with a range of experiences, meaning there is advice available at all levels for cases of simplicity or complexity and in between so clients are not paying for the wrong level of advice. Again, because it is such a big team, they handle money, children and can deal with the lot rather than only having limited expertise in one area.’
‘Sarah Overy is a partner of the highest standing. She has been doing the job for years and so has loads of experience. She is also patient and thoughtful which leads to clever and effective strategies being put in place. Her negotiation skills are spot on and she knows when to run points and when to jettison bad ones. Her clients really benefit from her approach.’
‘They have good strength and depth over a number of offices. Their legal knowledge is good and strong. People skills are excellent. Empathetic and hardworking team who are well managed.’
‘Katie Beaven is beginning to make her mark. Great with clients, good case strategy and good at managing people. Juliet Harvey is dynamic and client-focused. Lisa Cornish is quietly excellent; she doesn't shout about her skills enough but leaves no stone unturned. Sarina Bailey is committed to clients, working very hard in the domestic abuse sphere and she is really loved by clients.’
'The quality of this team is fantastic. Great individuals all working together for the good of their clients.'
'The openness, willingness to engage with other professionals and their can-do attitude make this team great. Special mention to Katie Beaven, Juliet Harvey and Ivana Radovic as standout lawyers.'
‘The team can be trusted to work constructively with their opposition. They're formidable, but sensible.’
‘Rachel Frost-Smith is a delight to work opposite. You know she'll 'make you work' but she plays with a straight bat and you can pick up the phone and have a sensible discussion with her. Sarah Overy is reliable for swift and efficient MIAMS.’