Swinburne Maddison LLP’s family practice in Durham is well-established in the North East and handles a wide range of advice in relation to family breakdowns from divorce and separation, the division of assets and making arrangements for children. Legal director Kath Hill heads up the department and is experienced in all aspects of relationship breakdowns; she is the key contact for collaboration and mediation proceedings. Managing associate Catherine Lowther covers all areas of family law, regularly representing high-net-worth clients in financial remedy proceedings, investments and allegations of child neglect or abuse. The department is well-supported by Ellie Straughan, who joined the firm in January 2023 and deals with divorce, separation and private law children matters.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Extremely diverse and very dynamic team. Superb networkers with local businesses and service providers ensuring relationships are maintained and developed.’
‘Catherine Lowther now leads the team and is becoming a well respected and established specialist in family law.’
‘The support we received from the team was well beyond just professional advice. There was genuine care taken to make us feel as comfortable as possible over such a difficult few months. They gave us outstanding service throughout our case, advice was transparent and fair.'
‘Catherine Lowther - I can't think of anyone better to represent us during our case. Catherine's care, attention to detail and understanding of the situation made us feel at ease throughout. Her kindness both professionally and personally is something we will never forget.’
‘Team was always friendly understanding throughout my divorce.’
‘Kath Hill - experience was extremely comforting throughout my case ’
‘Catherine Lowther is an excellent lawyer who works quickly and smartly to benefit not only her client, but has the whole family in mind.’
‘Catherine Lowther is an absolute pleasure to deal with. She is very experienced and competent and works very well with counter-part lawyers to try and achieve a mutually acceptable outcome for all involved. Would highly recommend Catherine.’
Work highlights
- Representing a client in connection with matrimonial finances, significant pre-marital wealth of £15m to be subjected to ring fencing arguments.
- Acting on behalf of a client in respect of a successful claim to amend the maintenance terms of a post nuptial agreement drafted in the US.
- Representing a client in a case which involves significant allegations of child neglect, child abuse and domestic abuse.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Kath Hill