Freeths LLP's Oxford-based family team stands out for its range of specialist expertise in matrimonial and children related mandates, and cases involving serious domestic violence allegations. Joanne Thomas is a key name for fertility and surrogacy matters, and Gemma Nicholls-Webber is an expert in rural and agricultural issues. Practice head Gavin Scott, ‘a truly exceptional lawyer', continues to handle matters involving complex overseas investments. Tom Burgess is recommended for his extensive skill in mediation.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘From the minute I spoke to the team at Freeths I knew they were definitely the firm for me. Freeths explained everything to me, what the divorce process looked like and what they could do to help. They answered all my questions and I felt very empowered. The team at Freeths remained very calm, and managed to defuse the situation and come to an agreement before it went to court.’

  • 'Jo Thomas is beloved by clients with good reason.'

  • ‘Gavin Scott is technically brilliant and one of the hardest working, most dedicated people that I have had the pleasure of working with. If you have instructed him on your case, you know it would have been done well and to an excellent standard.’

  • ‘Tom Burgess is an excellent mediator. Extremely calm, kind and empathetic.’

  • ‘Gavin Scott is a truly exceptional lawyer with an immensely deep legal knowledge and excellent technical ability. He is well known for his robust advice and his clients always feel very supported because they are. Gavin is able to grasp complex matters quickly and will ensure a clear strategy is in place. His interactions with other lawyers is constructive and when appropriate collaborative.’

  • ‘Gemma Nicholls-Webber is fantastic - she does a thorough job, giving the client very sensible and realistic advice, and will take the time to prepare a full brief well in advance of a hearing.'

  • ‘Alex Haworth is just an incredible individual. Alex always kept a cool, professional head, even at times that the other side were incredible rude and difficult to work with. She knew my case inside and out, and was readily available for me whenever I needed her. There was that really personal connection, and I truly felt like she was on my side. She got me the best possible outcome in my divorce, and for that I couldn't be more grateful.'

  • ‘I really felt that there was a good balance between the business and the human side. Going through a separation myself, which is a tough moment, it is really appreciated to receive accurate support and advice from someone who not only shows knowledge and has confidence, but also shows some empathy and is pleasant.’

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Gavin Scott

Other key lawyers

Joanne Thomas, Tom Burgess, Gemma Nicholls-Webber, Danielle Beesley, Alexandra Haworth