Tom specialises in family law and his focus is on helping you to reach an amicable agreement quickly, constructively and cost-effectively. He does this by working with you to find the best approach – whether it’s advising as you seek to reach an agreement yourself; or by going through mediation, or negotiating on your behalf.When going to court is the only option, Tom has extensive experience of contested court proceedings. Tom is a family lawyer primarily based in our Oxford office, but also works from our Milton Keynes office and is able to meet with clients there.Tom is a member of Resolution, a family law professionals’ group committed to resolving family disputes in a constructive, non-confrontational way that puts the best interests of the children first.
England - South East • Private client
Freeths LLP
Gavin Scott heads up Freeths LLP family offering out of Oxford, having joined from Stowe Family Law LLP in August 2022. Praised for being ‘exceptionally hardworking and providing a great service to his clients’, Scott’s caseload includes highly complex and cross-border child cases, alongside financial matters. The team is known for its expertise in matters involving overseas assets and pensions, and for particular knowledge in fertility and surrogacy law – Tom Burgess is a key name here. Joanne Thomas is another important port of call for financial remedy work.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Danielle Beesley was really kind, supportive and professional when dealing with my case. I valued her honesty and ability to clarify all aspects of my case so I was able to easy understand and stay in control of the situation.‘
'Gavin Scott is exceptionally hardworking and proves a great service to his clients. He is good with both financial remedies and children act matters. He provides sensible advice and will always go the extra mile.’
- 'Tom Burgess is a very capable lawyer who is able to quickly cut to the heart of an issue and provide robust advice.’
- ‘Joanne Thomas is one of the most dedicated and diligent solicitors I work with, and is always willing to go the extra mile for her clients. Her advice is always practical and sound.'
‘Gavin Scott has an effortless charm to his persona which belies a commanding grasp of his cases and an ability to find a way to achieve the best outcome for his clients. His preparation of cases in the lead up to a hearing is superb and makes my life as a barrister so much easier when representing his clients.’
‘Heather Jarrold-Taylor is wonderful to work with - she is responsive, organised and generally on top of things. She clearly takes a lot of time to ensure she is aware of the client's aims and wishes, but gives sensible advice.’
‘Freeths LLP is always a reliable firm. You know that you will get good quality representation and sensible advice.’
‘Tom Burgess is kind and understanding with clients, always providing sensible and practical advice. He is organised and reliable when it comes to court documents and deadlines.'
Lawyers
Rising stars
Joanne has specialised in all aspects of Family Law since qualifying in 2012, developing a particular expertise in advising on marital agreements, divorce, cohabitation disputes and financial matters arising from the breakdown of a relationship. She regularly advises on cases involving family businesses, inherited wealth and complex legal issues.Whether advising on financial matters or disputes involving children, Joanne is dedicated to providing clear, pragmatic advice, which enables her clients to achieve the best, long-term solution.As a member of Resolution, a national organisation of professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes, Joanne advocates resolving family issues as amicably and cost-effectively as possible, particularly where children are involved. However, it is not always possible to resolve family issues without involving the Court. Where contested court proceedings are instigated, Joanne is highly experienced in advising and supporting clients through the legal process.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Gavin Scott