The 'exceptional' team at Crane & Staples LLP, based in Welwyn Garden City, regularly represents both public and private clients. Danielle Peters heads the practice as a specialist in private family law with broad experience in high-net-worth financial remedy matters and complex children cases. The public law and care proceedings sub-team is headed by Sian Churchill, who is noted for her 'impeccable' knowledge. Sharon Montgomery is recommended for her vast knowledge of nuptial agreements, and complex pension cases,while Natasha Khakhar regularly assists clients with cohabitation agreements.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Danielle Peters has really made my divorce a lot easier. She and her team have supported me every step of the way and given me the strength to keep fighting for what I'm entitled to.’

  • ‘Janet Martland was very kind and considerate in her approach when I was having to deal with a family issue legal matter. Janet always kept me up to date with progress of my case and was very honest with her opinions which was appreciated. I knew I was in the best possible hands and I had every faith in her expertise.'

  • ‘This practice is exceptional throughout. They are all very friendly from the start, willing to go through everything thoroughly in each of the procedures. The solicitors were each very understanding of all the situations and treatment both me and my child have sustained.'

  • ‘Natasha Khakhar has been extremely helpful, knowledgeable and could come up with practical solutions for my current situation.’

  • 'Not only is her legal knowledge outstanding, Natasha Khakhar has made the whole experience of dealing with such a stressful case bearable. She has such a calm manner and a clear, concise way of explaining thigs that really makes you feel relaxed and at ease.'
  • ‘Sharon Montgomery looked after my prenup. It was a very difficult negotiation. I required a lot of reassurance and hand holding, which Sharon provided. Sharon is tough when needed and sensitive when needed. She won’t be pushed around but also understood the human aspect of this work and the need for delicacy. I found her very relatable and was so glad to have her in my corner.’

  • ‘Sian Churchill is a very conscientious lawyer who goes the extra mile for her clients. Her knowledge of the law is impeccable, and she has a knack of anticipating any curve balls in a case to ensure she is always ready to deal with them.'

  • 'Lilas Kayani is a very hard-working lawyer whose analysis of a case and understanding of the client's needs are always spot on. I have been very impressed with Lilas' ability to further her client's interests, often in the face of resistance from other parties. Lilas has gained a very good reputation with the judiciary and tribunal she appears before, something which I have observed first-hand.'

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Danielle Peters, Sian Churchill

Other key lawyers

Sharon Montgomery, Janet Martland, Natasha Khakhar, Lilas Kayani