Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP‘s Reading and Oxford-based family team runs the gamut of family matters, and is noted for its expertise in international cases. Jane Mitchell makes a ’formidable opponent’, specialising in complex financial and children matters as well as pre and post nuptial agreements. Mitchell co-heads the Oxford team with Ruth James, whose practice consists of financial matters involving trusts, offshore entities and companies. Kerry Fretwell leads the Reading team, with her broad experience in acting for unmarried clients and intervenors. The practice gained the expertise of Jolene Hutchison in 2024, who joined the Oxford office from IBB Law.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team are highly specialist and fully up to date with all developments in the field as well as familiar with potential experts. The advice to clients is always very sound and grounded.’
‘Kerry Fretwell is excellent, very experienced and her client care is focused on providing guidance and pragmatism.'
‘Penningtons have the strength in depth amongst their offices that most firms look at with envy. Brilliant lawyers from Partner to Trainee level and everything in between. A superb firm that really sets the standard.’
‘Eleanor Moodey is a well organised senior associate with a calm, unflappable demeanour. Her approach is thorough and leaves no stone unturned in ensuring that the best possible case is being put on behalf of her clients. Her clients trust her and barristers can rely on clear, concise briefs that are informative and helpful.'
‘Ruth James combines an effervescent personality with a smart brain and a wealth of experience. She is quite excellent.'
'Jane Mitchell is firm but gentle, she is very clear minded and a formidable opponent.'
‘Kerry Fretwell is the strong leader of a very effective team delivering excellent legal services to their clients in the Reading office. This firm ensures that representation is strong, clear and entirely client-centred, with a keen emphasis on looking for practical resolution. The firm is well networked and well resourced.’
‘Kerry Fretwell is hugely experienced and approachable, gives clients a strong sense of security as she represents their interests firmly and skillfully.'
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Jane Mitchell, Kerry Fretwell, Ruth James