Stowe Family Law LLP leverages its network of offices in Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Southampton, Fleet and Winchester. Liza Gatrell heads the team from Southampton, standing out for her experience in surrogacy matters both domestic and international. In March 2023 the firm acquired Fleet firm Watson Thomas, where 'brilliant solicitor' Samantha Armour is noted for her expertise in complex, high-net-worth financial cases. Vicki Rawlins has notable experience in nuptial and cohabitation agreements, and parenting plans.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • This is an excellent team with a great wealth of experience.'
  • 'Samantha Armour is a brilliant solicitor. Her case preparation is very thorough and she is focused on achieving settlement. Her approach is calm and pragmatic. She is joy to work with.'
  • 'The attraction to me of Stowe is the presence of Liza Gatrell and her experience of surrogacy.'
  • 'Liza Gatrell is approachable, constructive when on the other side of a matter and generous with her knowledge.'
  • 'Vicki Rawlins is a very experienced family lawyer.'
  • 'Liza Gatrell, has provided an excellent service. She has always sought to maintain a supportive, reasonable approach with the clear aim of resolving our matter, rather than prolonging the process unnecessarily. This is in stark contrast with my limited experience of some other firms which emphasise strident, combative tones, and which are not conducive to resolving the matter. Her support, pragmatic advice and patience have been first class.'
  • 'Stowe is going from strength to strength and offer a phenomenal service to clients. The solicitors I work with are incredibly hard working, professional but personable, this is a rare but ideal combination.'
  • 'Rosanna Hounslow remains the shining star at this firm in Hampshire. She is utterly brilliant and if I ever needed a family solicitor I would want her on my side. She really fights for her clients and is excellent when it comes to long term case strategy. She is tactically excellent, hard working, and a joy to be at court with. Clients love her firm but fair style. She gets brilliant results.'

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Liza Gatrell, Samantha Armour

Other key lawyers

Vicki Rawlins, Kate Anderson, Rosanna Hounslow