Ward Hadaway LLP in Manchester has a ‘very strong team' in matrimonial finance work, and the group regularly acts for business owners and media and sports personalities in divorce proceedings which can often involve complex financial issues and children-related disputes. The group is also experienced in nuptial agreements, particularly ones involving inherited wealth, and surrogacy law. The practice is co-headed by Christine Barker, who is ’a force to be reckoned with' and an expert in high-value divorces and financial settlements, and ‘master of her trade' Liz Bottrill, who advises clients on divorce and cohabitation disputes, nuptial agreements, and issues relating to children; Bottrill is particularly capable of representing vulnerable clients. The group also includes David Burrows, who has ’an abundance of knowledge' on the full range of family issues arising from a relationship breakdown, Rachael Longman, who has particular expertise in complex financial proceedings, and Rachel Ward, who has a broad family practice.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Clear, demonstrable expertise. Effortless, timely communication. Preferred outcomes, delivered. What else could I ask for?’

  • ‘From the initial consultation to the final conclusion, the Ward Hadaway team were highly professional. They guide you at every stage and explain the consequences of each decision that's made. They also fully explain the complex legal system and you are given a diary of every step from the onset of their instruction.'

  • ‘Great firm. Top for family law in their location. They are a very strong team.’

  • ‘Liz Bottrill's command of the complex area of law where I engaged her services is frankly astonishing. She has led a lengthy negotiation with a calm authority, appropriate communication and has guided me where and when required. Liz is clearly a master of her trade, and a credit to the profession.’

  • ‘Liz Bottrill is excellent; she is very knowledgeable and has particular experience dealing with matrimonial issues for high-net-worth clients that lack mental capacity and have involvement with the Court of Protection. She is very calm and reassures her clients.’

  • ‘Christine Barker is exceptional; she has a wealth of knowledge and has dealt with many awkward situations with divorce. From the initial meeting, Christine puts you at ease, she is very down earth and approachable. She is a force to be reckoned with within the legal circles.'

  • ‘Christine Barker is a stellar performer. She is superb with clients and has an amazing attention to detail. She fights ferociously when necessary but knows how to go in gently when necessary.'

  • 'David Burrows has an abundance of knowledge, he's so professional and has a very kind demeanour. Nothing is too much trouble and he is very patient, but firm . He's so technical, everything he does is well thought out and precise.’

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Christine Barker, Liz Bottrill

Other key lawyers

David Burrows, Rachael Longman, Rachel Ward