Neil is a Partner and Head of our Family Department. He advises on all aspects of relationship breakdown, including divorce, children and finances. His clients come from all walks of life, from stay at home parents to captains of industry, high-profile celebrities and owners of family businesses. A career-high was acting for the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, in his divorce (a matter of public record).Neil deals with the most straightforward to the most complicated cases involving Trusts and international issues, and has extensive expertise in advising on Pre-Nuptial Agreements and Cohabitation Agreements.A member of Resolution and pioneer of Divorce Funding, Neil is known for his pragmatic approach and respected for his experience and ability. He advises clients on all aspects of the process and assists with ways to deal with the costs involved - using the law to unlock and protect clients’ financial interests. In this, he endorses the words of Lord Justice Thorpe “…where there is everything to fight for and nothing to fight with”.When dealing with children related matters, Neil regards the children as his invisible clients. His aim is to protect their future through his advice, steering clients towards an outcome that leaves the family best placed to move forward following the breakdown of a relationship.Neil is recognised in Legal 500 as being "one of the 'go to' men in the London matrimonial world". Neil is also a Family Law commentator and regularly appears on LBC Radio on the Family Legal Hour.
England - London • Private client
Seddons
Neil Russell sits at helm at Seddons and he is ‘a highly competent solicitor with an excellent following and client base’. The family law team handles a wide range of issues, and it receives a steady flow of instructions on complex financial disputes often involving cross-jurisdictional issues, as well as advising on the financial provision for children. In addition, it frequently assists clients with financial injunctions. Victoria Sterritt joined Davidson McDonnell Solicitors in May 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Neil Russell stands out from the rest with his reassuring manner, relentless pursuit of his clients' best interests, and his ability to navigate any traps to reach the best outcome for his clients.'
‘Neil Russell has become one of the go-to people in the matrimonial world for clients who have complicated cases and celebrities who wish to retain anonymity.'
‘Neil Russell heads the family team. He is hugely experienced and able. Neil is wonderful with clients, a shrewd litigator and great fun to work with; he provides an excellent service.'
‘The team are switched on and very thorough. Victoria Spencer has stood out to me as having excellent client care skills combined with tremendous tactical acumen.'
‘Ffion Greenfield has been extremely focused on achieving the most favourable outcome for our client since the outset and she is extremely organised. I have found her extremely impressive and her communication skills are great.'
‘Brilliant team of super individuals. Ffion Greenfield is a stellar solicitor; super bright and efficient and way ahead of her years.'
Key clients
- Boris Johnson
Work highlights
- Representing Boris Johnson in his divorce proceedings, including financial remedies and negotiating a settlement.
Lawyers
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Neil Russell