Firms To Watch: Family

Led by Meena Kumari, who is a seasoned lawyer in complex and international children cases, Duncan Lewis Solicitors handles a wide range of family matters with particular focus on domestic violence, care proceedings, and divorce. Emily Reed, who is highly experienced in FGM matters, wardship and child abduction, is also a key contact.
Led by Iwona Durlak, IMD Solicitors LLP in Manchester is a boutique firm specialising in representing international clients in cross-border private family law matters in the domestic courts. Family law specialist James Francis Legg joined the group as an in-house counsel in September 2023.

Family in North West

Hall Brown Family Law

Boutique firm Hall Brown Family Law in Manchester is praised by clients as the ‘best in its class‘. The group is particularly sought after by high-net-worth individuals, such as sports personalities, celebrities, and business owners for financial remedy proceedings. These often involve international elements and include divorces and pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements. The team is also experienced in a broad range of children law matters. The practice is co-headed by James Brown and Sam Hall, who both specialise in all areas of family law with an emphasis on divorce and financial remedy proceedings. The group also includes financial remedy proceedings expert Andrew Newbury and Beth Wilkins, who is particularly experienced in high-net-worth work, pre-nuptial agreements, and Schedule 1 Children Act cases. Madelaine Hailey, who is ‘an up-and-coming star‘, is another key contact.

Practice head(s):

James Brown; Sam Hall


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Newbury; Beth Wilkins; Madelaine Hailey; Claire Reid


Testimonials

‘Hall Brown are, simply put, at the top of their game and deservedly highly prominent in the field of matrimonial finance law. They excel at every level, having some of the most eminent and capable practitioners in the country.’

‘The team has become one of the largest and most sought after in the market. The work it attracts is of the highest quality and it is a firm of real ambition and drive.’

‘Hall Brown is best in its class. They are extremely intelligent, thorough and the leading firm for divorce and financial remedy.’

‘Sam Hall is an incredible work winner with an excellent network.’

‘James Brown is technically brilliant and a strong advocate for his clients.’

‘Madelaine Hailey is an up-and-coming star. She is pragmatic and a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Claire Reid brings really good judgement and offers excellent tactical advice.’ 

‘Andrew Newbury is without a doubt at the very top of his game, deservedly with a high profile at a national level. Calm, measured and streetwise, he is a force to be reckoned with.’

Irwin Mitchell

The ‘exceptionally knowledgeable' family practice at Irwin Mitchell in Manchester acts for a broad range of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients, and the group has particular expertise in complex financial remedy proceedings, often with an international element, such as cases involving fraud and non-disclosure. Leading the group, the ‘excellentRos Bever specialises in high-net-worth cases with complex trust structures and cross-border issues. Nathaniel Groarke leads the financial remedy team and represents a broad range of national and international clients with ‘a cool head and safe pair of hands' on issues such as pre-nuptial agreements and wealth preservation. The ‘standout' lawyer Emma Benson also specialises in the high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth market, whilst Emma Hopton has expertise in complex children work with an emphasis on relocation and abduction matters. Phillip Rhodes joined the firm from Slater Heelis (Part of Lawfront) in April 2024, and Hannah Saxe joined Slater and Gordon in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Ros Bever


Other key lawyers:

Nathaniel Groarke; Emma Benson; Emma Hopton; Samantha Clifford; Hepzi Williams-Arnold; Phillip Rhodes


Testimonials

‘Exceptionally knowledgable individuals who keep up to date with the latest legal developments and are at the forefront of the family law teams in Manchester.’

‘Extremely professional and well organised team with strengths at all levels of seniority.’

‘Emma Benson is a standout senior associate.’

‘Ros Bever is an excellent lawyer who fights hard for her clients.’

‘Nathaniel Groarke has a cool head and safe pair of hands. He is sensible and able to cut through a lot of the issues.’

‘Nathaniel Groarke takes time to understand the complexities of the situation whilst bringing his great experience to bear for his clients. Emma Benson takes time to understand the different needs of each of her clients in a sympathetic and caring manner. Both Nathaniel and Emma have a ‘no-nonsense and straightforward approach. ’

‘Samantha Clifford works tirelessly for the benefit of her colleagues and clients.’

‘Hepzi Williams-Arnold is a fantastic lawyer with a bright future. She is pragmatic, hard-working, and has a good tactical brain. A great choice for financial remedy and private law children work.’

Key clients

Julia Goddard-Watts


Work highlights


  • Acting for Julia Goddard-Watts in an appeal against a final order made by Sir Jonathan Cohen following the conclusion of second rehearing of her claim for financial remedies.

JMW Solicitors LLP

The highly knowledgeable family law team at JMW Solicitors LLP ‘provides a first-class service and has an enviable reputation in the sector‘. The Manchester-based group is co-led by Elspeth Kinder, who has extensive experience in acting for high-net-worth clients in divorce and matrimonial finance cases, as well as children work, and the ‘strategically aware and commercial‘ Michael Chapman, who has particular expertise in Schedule 1 claims. Also in Manchester, David Pickering is a divorce expert who frequently advises clients with assets located overseas and offshore trusts, and Katie Lowe, who focuses on the financial side of divorce and is praised by clients as ‘simply brilliant‘. The group also includes head of the Liverpool team Beverley Jones, who specialises in high-net-worth financial proceedings and children cases, such as Schedule 1 claims and surrogacy matters, and in-house counsel Abigail Bennett, who is a ‘formidable advocate and strategist‘ in cases relating to matrimonial finances, Schedule 1 claims, and Children Act proceedings. Pauline McNamara joined the firm's Liverpool office in February 2024.

Practice head(s):

Elspeth Kinder; Michael Chapman; Beverley Jones


Other key lawyers:

David Pickering; Katie Lowe; Abigail Bennett; Matthew Handley; Ruben Sinha; Pauline McNamara


Testimonials

‘A force across England and Wales. JMW is one of the best firms in the country.’

‘A really excellent family firm with great client support skills. JMW provides a first-class service and has an enviable reputation in the sector.’

‘Michael Chapman is excellent. He is very strategically aware and commercial.’

‘Abigail Bennett is a formidable advocate and strategist.’

‘Beverley Jones and Abigail Bennett are standout individuals who are excellent lawyers and incredibly hard working.’

‘Ruben Sinha is probably the brightest shining star of matrimonial finance in the North West. In just a few years after returning from Hong Kong, he has raced ahead of the competition. He is a superb matrimonial solicitor.’

‘Katie Lowe is simply brilliant. Fantastically clever, kind, courteous, engaged, and an absolute pleasure to work with. She specialises in the most complex cases and will find a way through.’

‘Matthew Handley’s approach enables him to put clients facing the most difficult of circumstances at immediate ease and he is very generous with the time that he commits to providing training to junior members of the team.’

Maguire Family Law

Praised as as ‘a significant force in financial remedy proceedingsMaguire Family Law is a boutique firm specialising in all areas of family law. The team has particular expertise in cases with a cross-border element and frequently represents clients in international divorce proceedings and child abduction cases. In Manchester, James Maguire is ‘simply fantastic' and an expert in technical financial matters, and he also has niche capabilities in the international relocation of children and abduction cases. The group is also led by the ‘standout professionalDenise Moran in Wilmslow, who is experienced in the full range of financial provision and private children matters, including those involving trusts and corporate structures, and Henry Venables in Knutsford, who represents clients in both financial and children matters, including cohabitation disputes, divorces, and wealth protection issues.  The ‘outstandingAbigail Reynolds in Altrincham, who has a broad family practice with a particular interest in complex private children cases, is also a key contact.

Practice head(s):

James Maguire; Henry Venables; Denise Moran


Other key lawyers:

Abigail Reynolds; Honor Giles; Karima Al-Saida


Testimonials

‘Exceptional client care, attention to detail, thorough preparation, and highly knowledgeable. Specialist and skilled lawyers with complimentary relationships with counsel on cases.’

‘A recognised specialist and boutique practice based in Wilmslow and Altrincham, servicing Manchester and Cheshire. It is a significant force in financial remedy proceedings; well staffed and supported to deal with all levels of work and complexity.’

‘One of the best firms on circuit.’

McAlister Family Law

Led by the highly experienced Amanda McAlister, who specialises in complex pensions, divorce, and international cases, McAlister Family Law in Manchester is a specialist child and family practice that goes ‘above and beyond‘ for a broad range of clients in both public and private proceedings. The group has unique expertise representing children, as well as niche capabilities in cases involving child alienation, forced marriage, and non-accidental injuries. Fiona Wood leads the divorce and finance division and Jason Stanley heads the unmarried property team while also having extensive experience in matrimonial finance work, wealth protection, and disputes child arrangements. The group also includes the ‘outstanding‘ Ruth Hetherington, who is a public and private children law specialist, Nicola McDaid, who represents parents, local authorities, and children in a broad range of public law cases, and Paul Reay, who is ‘a real champion for his clients‘ and is experienced in all matters relating to relationship breakdowns, children, and domestic abuse.

Practice head(s):

Amanda McAlister


Other key lawyers:

Fiona Wood; Jason Stanley; Ruth Hetherington; Nicola McDaid; Paul Reay; Lisa Brown; Nick Hodson


Testimonials

‘Excellent knowledge of the law and practice, high calibre of lawyers, and great collaborators.’

‘Client-focused firm situated in Manchester with a good team of solicitors who go the extra mile. Every case is meticulously prepared and briefs are sent in good time.’

‘Nick Hodson is a superb advocate; very experienced, massively reassuring, and composed. Popular and charming, he delivers realistic advice and is very knowledgeable in all areas of family law.’

‘Amanda McAlister is amazing and I can’t recommend her enough. She’s calm, so knowledgeable and makes you feel at ease in the most stressful situations.’

‘I have worked with Paul Reay, who is an outstanding advocate and a real champion for his clients. Firm and fair is his approach.’

‘Fiona Wood is a well-established senior family lawyer who leads the team in offering a superb standard of advice, support and guidance. ’

‘Ruth Hetherington is a calm, friendly, knowledgeable and experienced professional. She was outstanding on my case. She was caring, approachable and honest. I felt totally assured that she understood the case and my needs.’

‘Lisa Brown has been incredibly supportive and empathetic during such a highly distressing time in my life. She is very friendly and professional, extremely knowledgeable and explains everything perfectly and very clearly. A great outcome in the best interests of my child was achieved.’

Mills & Reeve LLP

Mills & Reeve LLP in Manchester is well equipped to handle both complex financial cases, often involving corporate structures and offshore trusts, as well as private children disputes with international elements. The group also has unique expertise in alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration involving children law matters. The ‘outstanding' practice head Alison Bull leads the firm’s family non-court dispute resolution group and is a highly skilled arbitrator of children and financial issues, as well as being a cross-border family mediator. Nigel Shepherd is an expert financial arbitrator and dispute resolution consultant and Andrew Moore, who leads the firm’s family business team is ‘an exceptional advocate'. The group also includes unmarried families and cohabitation expert Sue Brookes and Rose-Marie Drury, who is ‘robust and determined with considerable expertise' in financial settlements and private children cases.

Practice head(s):

Alison Bull


Other key lawyers:

Nigel Shepherd; Andrew Moore; Sue Brookes; Rose-Marie Drury; Abigail Pearse


Testimonials

‘Mills & Reeve deliver exceptional client service. They have a depth of knowledge which is invaluable for clients.’

‘They do very high quality work that is largely kept out of court. They are a formidable team of very intelligent and able lawyers.’

‘Mills & Reeve are an outstanding firm providing exceptional care and services for clients. Clients should know that they will be listened to, cared for, and that the best divorce journey will be created for them by the team.’

‘Andrew Moore is an exceptional advocate for clients. He shows compassion and understanding in his approach, which is important given the emotional gravity of the situations his clients may find themselves in. He is solution-oriented and practical. It is a refreshing approach in a sector which can often unnecessarily prolong conflict.’

‘Andrew Moore and Alison Bull are extraordinarily able lawyers; extremely bright and cut to the chase on every case.’

‘Alison Bull is an outstanding member of the family team. Her considered, expert approach infuses confidence from the outset and her commitment to providing the absolute best for her clients is second-to-none.’

‘Rose-Marie Drury is robust and determined with considerable expertise.’

‘Abigail Pearse provides the team with extremely competent support and manages her own case load at the same time.’

MSB Solicitors Ltd

Described by clients as ‘ubiquitous in the Liverpool legal scene', MSB Solicitors Ltd has extensive experience in the full range of family finance cases, and the group is particularly sought after for its expertise in complex and cross-border children matters, including public law cases surrounding allegations of abuse, forced marriages, and surrogacy. Practice head Emma Palmer is a ‘highly competent' expert in complex multi-jurisdictional cases involving children, and Pippa Tudor is ‘an excellent advocate when it comes to financial matters'. The group also includes domestic abuse expert Emma Carey, who ‘creates a dynamic team that is unified in its desire to provide the very best of legal services', and Katie Camozzi, who is highly knowledgeable in the child abduction space. Financial relief specialist John Owens is a key contact in Manchester. Former head of private client department Pauline McNamara left the group to join JMW Solicitors LLP in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Emma Palmer


Other key lawyers:

Pippa Tudor; Emma Carey; Katie Camozzi; John Owens


Testimonials

‘Emma Palmer is highly competent and approachable and a pleasure to work with. Her knowledge of the law, procedure of a very high standard, and her leadership of the department results in the more junior members being reliable and able.’

‘I have no hesitation in recommending MSB. It consistently provides and delivers legal services of the highest quality. Instructions are always well presented and prepared, realistic and insightful. The family team at MSB are professional, efficient, committed, and cohesive, whilst being contactable and empathetic. This combination makes the family team at MSB unique.’

‘MSB are among the most hardworking, dedicated firm of solicitors I have ever had the pleasure to come across. Without exception, their family team go above and beyond for their clients.’

‘MSB is an excellent practice which is respected and well known for delivering the highest quality legal services. MSB has strength and depth in its team, allowing for clients to be well supported throughout the legal process and for there to be continuity in handling of matters. The firm attracts work which is complex, often involving international elements.’

‘Emma Carey creates a dynamic team that is unified in its desire to provide the very best of legal services.’

‘MSB are ubiquitous in the Liverpool legal scene. They offer excellent advice across the spectrum of family law. They have one of the larger family teams in the city and are extremely familiar with the daily workings of the Family Court at Liverpool.’

‘Pippa Tudor is a precise, clear, and, above all, calm lawyer. She advises thoughtfully and with regard to all angles.’

‘Emma Palmer and her team have a plethora of knowledge and expertise. Emma is well known in the community along with her team. Pippa Tudor is also an excellent advocate when it comes to financial matters. The team go above and beyond in helping clients and one another. There is a high level of training and knowledge for all staff.’

Work highlights


  • Advised a mother on complex international proceedings involving significant jurisdictional arguments in England and Italy.
  • Advised a husband on a financial relief application on his divorce with off-shore assets, allegations of hidden assets, and complex pension structures.
  • Advised a parent on significant allegations of non-accidental injury resulting in the finding of unknown medical aetiology.

Stephensons Solicitors LLP

Stephensons Solicitors LLP in Manchester is ‘a full-service family law team’ that represents parents, children, guardians, and local authorities across the full range of family law matters, often in cases with an international element. The group is knowledgeable on the private side of family law, including matrimonial  finances and children disputes, as well as boasting experts in complex public law disputes involving injury, adoption, and abduction. The ‘superb‘ Victoria Gethin leads the family department and has significant experience acting for local authorities, parents, and children in a broad range of children law cases, and she is also an expert in domestic abuse cases. Tim Galbraith specialises in complex care proceedings, private law children cases, adoption, and abduction matters, while Emma Roberts leads the divorce and finance team. The group also includes the ‘well-respected‘ Jackie Price and Rachel Benett, who is an ‘exceptional advocate with a great legal mind; both are children law specialists.

Practice head(s):

Victoria Gethin; Emma Robert


Other key lawyers:

Tim Galbraith; Emma Roberts; Jackie Price; Rachel Benett


Testimonials

‘This is a full-service family law team in every sense of the word; there is comprehensive experience at every level.’

‘Stephensons has a committed and dedicated team of family lawyers who work extremely hard to achieve the best outcome for their clients.’

‘From initial engagement to today, the team have been compassionate, conscientious, professional and balanced throughout, and the way they have supported me and my family is beyond words. Their thoughtful, caring yet professional approach helps when having to deal with the ups and downs a family court matter presents.’

Work highlights


  • Acted for a mother in care and placement order proceedings where post-adoption contact was given careful consideration.

Vardags

Full-service family practice Vardags in Manchester has ‘a strong reputation for handling complex and high-net-worth family law cases’, and the group regularly acts for a variety of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients on the financial aspects arising from relationship breakdowns, such as divorce and financial remedy proceedings, as well as the full range of children matters. The team often advises on cases with an international element and leverages the knowledge of the firm’s financial forensic and property departments. Praised by one client as ‘the best divorce lawyer anyone could ever instruct', practice head Emma Gill is an expert in divorce and matrimonial finance. The group also includes family finance specialist Gareth Curtis, Lucy Williams, who advises on all matters relating to divorce and complex children work, including parental alienation and abduction, and Annemarie Bradley, who ‘works tirelessly for her clients and simply goes above and beyond' in both financial and children matters. The ‘unbelievably supportiveNikki Hale, who specialises in complex financial cases, is another key practitioner. Former Poole Alcock LLP lawyers Amie Pine, who specialises in financial matters, including those in the agricultural sector, and Nicola Jones, who brings extensive experience in both finance and children matters, joined the group in November 2023.

Practice head(s):

Emma Gill


Other key lawyers:

Gareth Curtis; Lucy Williams; Annemarie Bradley; Nikki Hale; Amie Pine; Nicola Jones; Kate Kempster


Testimonials

‘Vardags Solicitors have a strong reputation for handling complex and high-net-worth family law cases. The team is distinguished for its strategic approach to financial disputes and arrangements involving children. Their expertise in navigating thorny legal issues, combined with a commitment to clear and straightforward client communication, sets them apart.’

‘Emma Gill is exceptional. She is highly intelligent yet down-to-earth, pragmatic and reassuring. To describe Emma as a lighthouse at what was the darkest time for me is an understatement. Emma is, as I have told her many times, the best divorce lawyer anyone could ever instruct and a truly wonderful person.’

‘Kate Kempster was an absolute pleasure to deal with and her knowledge of publications and legal documents was fantastic. Her communication skills were exemplary and I had every confidence in her abilities. I felt supported during a very challenging period of my life and greatly valued the services provided by Kate and her team.’

‘I worked with Gareth Curtis, Kate Kempster, and the rest of their team. Gareth and Kate were very clear in their advice for what they felt was the best outcome for me. They are extremely professional, but at the same time friendly and helpful. The made me feel at ease throughout a very difficult process to which I could see no end. As a client, I felt valued, respected and thoroughly represented. I have no hesitation in recommending them to any potential client.’

‘Nikki Hale has been unbelievably supportive throughout the whole process. Nikki and her team have responded incredibly quickly with any queries I may have raised. They have been reassuring when needed, responded quickly when needed and never phased by anything that happened; in fact, they always think one step ahead.’

‘Lucy Williams is fantastic.’

‘Annemarie Bradley works tirelessly for her clients and simply goes above and beyond.’

‘Amie Pine has pretty much given me hope in humanity. The care she takes and the level of understanding she has for my particularly difficult case and her work ethic is second-to-none.’

Work highlights


Weightmans LLP

The family team at Weightmans LLP consists of ‘extremely capable individuals‘ who collaborate closely with the tax and private client team to provide a full-service offering to clients experiencing a relationship breakdown or seeking wealth protection advice. The group has broad expertise in finance matters, such as pre and post-nuptial agreements, inherited wealth, and offshore trusts, combined with extensive knowledge in complex children work, including abduction, surrogacy, and cross-border cases. In Manchester, practice head Emma Collins is ‘a truly excellent solicitor with brilliant client care skills’ and she is an expert in financial remedy and cohabitation claims, including those involving offshore trusts, and the ‘highly respected‘ Fiona Turner has an international family law practice that encompasses wealth protection, divorce, and children matters. The Liverpool-based group includes ‘excellent family lawyer’ Fiona Davidson, who specialises in divorce, financial settlements, and children law issues arising from relationship breakdowns, Carole Atkinson, who has expertise in cases relating to family businesses and complex pension issues, and Rachel Lim, who ‘has a wealth of knowledge‘ in both financial and children matters with a particular interest in issues relating to modern family law such as surrogacy and co-parenting agreements.

Practice head(s):

Emma Collins


Other key lawyers:

Fiona Turner; Fiona Davidson; Carole Atkinson; Rachel Lim; Linzi Perriman


Testimonials

‘Weightmans is a highly respected legal team in Liverpool and has a stellar reputation in family law. It is a close-knit team who attract high-profile work and are always impeccably prepared.’

‘The team at Weightmans is well known and respected in the family law market. They are professional and pleasant to deal with and are active within the local Manchester family law community. They approach complex family law matters in a straightforward manner that is focused on resolution for their clients.’

‘The team is made up of extremely capable individuals dealing with complex and high-net-worth work. They are all technically very sound and work in a collaborative way with other lawyers.’

‘Fiona Davidson is an excellent family lawyer. She has an excellent command of the law itself, but more importantly for divorce matters, is able to provide practical and pragmatic solutions whilst managing client emotions. She is supportive but firm in equal measures.’

‘Rachel Lim is extremely personable. Her ability to listen, understand, and empathise inspired me. Always professional. Great communication and always responded promptly. Rachel has a wealth of knowledge and has given me constructive legal advice that has steered me through a turbulent divorce. I hold Rachel in high regard.’

‘Emma Collins is very knowledgeable and very personable and puts you totally at ease when discussing your problem. She thinks out of the box and comes up with the most practical solution.’

‘Fiona Turner is a highly respected partner. Her excellent reputation is wholly deserved. She is always on top of her cases. She combines pragmatism with a great kindness (an often underrated quality). Thoroughly recommended. An outstanding solicitor.’

‘Linzi Perriman is razor sharp; she knows the law and procedure and ensures it is followed in her cases. Linzi does not shy away from providing robust advice to clients and is a strong negotiator.’

Brabners LLP

Praised by clients as a ‘premier family law service', Brabners LLP assists primarily high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients on the full range of family issues, including complex financial proceedings and child matters. As a full-service firm, the group ensures cross-department collaboration with its renowned private client and commercial team and has extensive experience in matters with a multi-jurisdictional element. Practice head Helen Marriott in Liverpool is a key name for complex financial matters and is also a highly skilled arbitrator. In Manchester, the ‘one in a millionCara Nuttall is an expert in domestic and international children matters, as well as fertility and surrogacy law, and Leanne Instrall is also sought after for her work in childcare disputes. Also in Manchester, Joe Ailion is ‘a star' in all aspects of private family law and the ‘superb’ Jo-Anna Jellings is particularly sought after for children matters. Another key practitioner is Richard Rigg in Liverpool, who ‘offers straightforward and easily deciphered advice' on all aspects of family law. Joanne Radcliff left the group for Hill Dickinson LLP in December 2023, and Natalie Dickson is with Freeths LLP as of October 2023.

Practice head(s):

Helen Marriott


Other key lawyers:

Cara Nuttall; Leanne Instrall; Joe Ailion; Jo-Anna Jellings; Richard Rigg


Testimonials

‘The family team at Brabners are an exceptional offering in the north west of England covering Manchester and Liverpool.’

‘Brabners are easily the premier family law service in Liverpool, Manchester and the surrounding area. They have enormous strength in depth and their first-rate lawyers cover the most serious and complex matters.’

‘Cara Nuttall is a one in a million solicitor; I marvel at her commitment and skills. I have never doubted for a moment that I am in the best hands possible.’

Farleys Solicitors LLP

The family lawyers at Farleys Solicitors LLP in Blackburn are ‘approachable and client focused in everything they do'. The team advises a variety of high-net-worth individuals on the full range of financial matters arising from a relationship breakdown, and also has extensive experience representing clients in both public and private children cases, including Schedule 1 Children Act applications and care proceedings. Antonia Love leads the group and provides ‘excellent advice' to high-net-worth individuals, footballers, and business owners in financial remedy proceedings. The group also includes the ‘exceptional’ Angharad Bentley, who advises on a broad range of issues arising out of a relationship breakdown, and Emma Procter who ‘goes above and beyond for clients' in Children Act matters and care proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Antonia Love


Other key lawyers:

Angharad Bentley; Emma Procter; Tony Rebello


Testimonials

‘The team at Farleys are responsive and compassionate in the way that they deal with sensitive and stressful matters. The knowledge base has been clearly demonstrated throughout my experience of the practice and there is always the drive to seek a reasoned solution.’

‘The family team at Farleys are approachable and client focused in everything they do. The members of the team are all devoted practitioners who are well respected amongst their peers.’

‘Exceptional client care and thorough case preparation. Always goes above and beyond for the clients.’

‘Antonia Love is a credit to Farleys and the family legal service as a whole. Her excellent advice and conduct led to the rapid conclusion of what could have been a lengthy battle for myself.’

‘Angharad Bentley is an exceptional person to deal with. She has a calm, reasoned and caring approach in seeking to resolve family matters. Her depth of knowledge and the impartial and professional manner that she adopts is commendable.’

‘Emma Procter is a very organised individual who has an encyclopaedic knowledge of her clients’ cases. Tony Rebello is devoted to his work and truly ensure that the client’s voice is heard in the family courts.’

‘Emma Proctor is an exceptional solicitor. She goes above and beyond for clients. She puts them at ease and prepares the case meticulously for them.’

‘Tony Rebello is extremely thorough and he is exceptional with client care and puts the clients at ease when guiding them through very emotional and difficult proceedings.’

Hill Dickinson LLP

Hill Dickinson LLP is a full-service firm whose family offering provides ‘consistently high-quality legal services to clients' across the full range of family matters, and the group has particular expertise representing high-net-worth clients like footballers and entrepreneurs in matrimonial disputes, nuptial agreements, and internal and international children relocation cases. Practice head Joanne Raisbeck in Liverpool is ‘incredibly hard-working and dedicated' and focuses on high-value financial matters and the negotiation of nuptial agreements. The ‘fantasticJoanne Radcliff joined the Manchester-based team at the beginning 2024 from Brabners LLP, and she specialises in high-value divorce and financial remedy matters, often involving international elements and complex financial structures. Ellie Webster in Liverpool, who is a specialist in complex finances and private children law, is also a key contact.

Practice head(s):

Joanne Raisbeck


Other key lawyers:

Joanne Radcliff; Ellie Webster


Testimonials

‘This firm provides a consistently high-quality legal service to clients. The firm’s strengths are in its handling of complex matters which require good tactical awareness and excellent standards of client care.’

‘Hill Dickinson’s family team in the north west are well regarded and are developing into a big player in the market.’

‘Hill Dickinson have a small but well-concentrated family team. They offer excellent advice on private children matters, but also have experience dealing with high-net-worth cases. Their size enables them to offer a highly personalised and bespoke service.’

‘Joanne Raisbeck is amazing. Incredibly hard-working and dedicated.’

‘Ellie Webster is brilliant; fantastic instincts, great judgement, good eye for detail, and tremendous client care skills. She is a joy to work with.’

‘Ellie Webster is dedicated and diligent. She always takes a conscientious approach to her cases and is always aware of recent legal developments and cases. She is thorough and empathetic with a good tactical awareness.’

‘Joanne Radcliff is solid and a very hard worker.’

‘Joanne Radcliff is a fantastic lawyer; detailed but not pedantic, empathetic but still professional and objective. A strong all rounder.’

Myerson Solicitors

Benefiting from the firm’s full-service offering and commercial capabilities, the family law team Myerson Solicitors in Altrincham is ‘highly regarded in the professional community' for its financial remedy work and wealth of children law expertise. The ‘knowledgeable' group regularly advises high-net-worth national and international individuals on financial matters, including nuptial agreements, applications to enforce and vary financial remedy court orders, and agricultural divorces. Practice head Jane Tenquist gives ‘realistic and solution-focused advice to clients’, particularly in her area of expertise regarding high-net-worth matrimonial finance. The ‘hard-workingNichola Bright is experienced in both financial remedy matters and complex and cross-border children cases, and is a notable expert on fertility and surrogacy issues. Sarah Whitelegge is ‘calm and sensible' and has a broad family practice with particular emphasis on children law, while Grace Parry has extensive experience in both financial and children matters.

Practice head(s):

Jane Tenquist


Other key lawyers:

Nichola Bright; Sarah Whitelegge; Grace Parry


Testimonials

‘Knowledgeable and helpful team. Approachable, friendly, and reliable. Experienced and varied areas of expertise offered, especially in private children and financial work.’

‘The firm is highly regarded in the professional community with a friendly and professional approach with very experienced partners who are able to get to the point and get the right result.’

‘A very strong non-London firm who do not shy away from large cases where the is plenty of fight. Like with a good number of regional law firms, they are able to draw strength from their other teams.’

‘Myersons have a team of dedicated family law specialists with a range of expertise. They take time to understand the clients’ needs, whether that is court or an out of court alternative, and ensure that the client is matched to the fee earner best able to serve their needs at the best price point.’

‘Jane Tenquist heads the team and she approaches her client work with care and attention to detail. Jane gives realistic and solution-focused advice to clients to help them to find their way through an emotionally challenging time. She is always mindful of the impact upon children and delivers her advice in a child-centred way.’

‘Jane Tenquist runs a great team of astute family lawyers offering value for money services delivering above their weight.’

‘Nichola Bright is a hard-working solicitor who is organised, efficient and great with clients. She experienced in children and matrimonial finances matters.’

‘Sarah Whitelegge is a calm and sensible solicitor who always provides good, carefully thought out advice, and her attitude is an intelligent and resolution-based approach, always achieving the best for the client.’

SAS Daniels LLP

The experienced team at SAS Daniels LLP represents clients in a broad range of family law disputes, including high-net-worth and cross-border financial matters, such as divorce and nuptial agreements, as well as in complex children cases, including internal and external child arrangements. Leading the group, Shelley Chesworth in Stockport has particular expertise in financial negotiations. The group also includes Anita Scorah in Macclesfield, who advises high-net-worth clients on matrimonial and children law, and often on issues with an international element, and Claire Porter in Chester, who advises a broad range of clients on matters including divorce, financial settlement, child arrangements, and asset protection.

Practice head(s):

Shelley Chesworth;


Other key lawyers:

Anita Scorah; Claire Porter


Slater Heelis (Part of Lawfront)

Largely based in Manchester, the family team at Slater Heelis (Part of Lawfront) consists of ‘technically excellent and client-focused solicitors‘ who are known for their financial work for high-net-worth and often international clients. The group also has particular specialisms in matrimonial finance, nuptial agreements, and international family law, as well as in complex children disputes and Schedule 1 Children Act proceedings. Practice head Mark Heptinstall frequently advises entrepreneurs and business owners with complex income structures on a broad range of financial matters. Charlotte Beck has extensive experience advising clients on divorce and cohabitation disputes. The group also includes Vicki McLynn and Kim Aucott, who both specialise in complex financial work, and Kaleel Anwar, who advises on a wide range of family law issues and has niche capabilities in providing Islamic family law advice that is compliant with Sharia Law. Phillip Rhodes joined Irwin Mitchell in April 2024.

Practice head(s):

Mark Heptinstall


Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Beck; Vicki McLynn; Kim Aucott; Kaleel Anwar; Alexandra Goldrein


Testimonials

‘Technically excellent and client-focused solicitors. A very strong team with strength in depth. I would recommend anyone to them on the basis that they really do care about their clients, which, when combined with excellent legal knowledge, hard work and fees at a reasonable rate, results in a winning combination.’

‘The practice cares for the families and knows how difficult divorces are, they work with you to resolve the problem, and I regularly recommend them to other fathers in distress.’

‘Mark Hepinstall is realistic and never over promises what he knows will not be delivered. Very personable and passionate about the process and gives you confidence in the what the outcome could be.’

‘Vicki McLynn is a standout individual in the market. She is vastly experienced, realistic, and excellent with clients. I would recommend her to anyone seeking a sensitive, friendly person who knows the law and deals with litigation effectively and practically.’

‘Charlotte Beck is just an outstanding family law solicitor; smart, insightful, and on-the-ball, with a tremendous work ethic and superb client-care skills.’

‘Kim Aucott is a very warm, reassuring and supportive personality for clients.’

‘Alexandra Goldrein is absolutely fantastic, brilliant and world class! Her knowledge of international child law is exceptional. Without her, I wouldn’t have been able to get contact with my child.’

Aaron & Partners LLP

Chester-based Aaron & Partners LLP is praised as an ‘absolutely first-class‘ family practice by clients, and the group has particular expertise in advising high-net-worth individuals on the financial aspects of a relationship breakdown. The team represents land owners, business owners, and farmers on marital agreements and complex financial structures. Practice head Simon Magner Mawdsley is ‘an outstanding family lawyer with huge intellect and real empathy‘, and he is sought after for his high-net-worth financial remedy and children work. Other key practitioners include Lorraine Saunders, who focuses on high-net-worth remedy work and private children law, and finance specialist Victoria Syvret, who is also a seasoned mediator.

Practice head(s):

Simon Magner Mawdsley


Other key lawyers:

Lorraine Saunders; Victoria Syvret


Testimonials

‘Attention to detail and legal prowess. They provide a London style approach to their financial remedy cases at regional prices. They are first-class in every respect.’

‘Excellent all-round team.’

‘Simon Magner Mawdsley and his team are dedicated to the best outcome for their clients. When I was going through a painful and quite expensive divorce they acted with friendliness and professionalism in equal measure. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending them. Absolutely first class.’

‘Simon Magner Mawdsley is a top class solicitor.’

‘Simon Magner Mawdsley is an outstanding family lawyer with huge intellect and real empathy.’

‘Lorraine Saunders has always been very organised, fully across the detail and able to provide helpful instructions, and remains level-headed even when faced with difficult opponents or even difficult clients.’

‘Lorraine Saunders and Victoria Syvret are efficient, update you on a regular basis and collaborate well.

‘Lorraine Saunders always keep me updated. She is very passionate about getting the right outcome for me but always reiterating what the courts and judge like to see, and ensuring that all the correct forms are completed.’

BPS Family Law LLP

With particular expertise in matrimonial finance, BPS Family Law LLP in Manchester regularly advises on international divorces and financial settlements involving assets and properties overseas, and it also has extensive experience in matters relating to children law, particularly child custody and maintenance disputes. Leading the group, Caroline Swain is ‘an excellent and understanding solicitor‘ and a sought after divorce and matrimonial lawyer whose experience includes work involving multi-national companies, trusts, and inter-family financial structures.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Swain


Testimonials

‘BPS Family Law demonstrated exceptional professionalism. They created a comfortable and welcoming environment, prioritising my needs and striving for optimal outcomes. Communication was seamless via email, and scheduling appointments was straightforward. This friendly law firm boasts highly skilled women who excel in their roles.’

‘The team is very approachable so clients bond with them. The team go above and beyond to look after clients.’

‘Individual approach and excellent. Helpful staff who are people centred and friendly. Lots of experience and good advice.’

Butcher & Barlow LLP

Led by Kevan Hankinson in Northwich, who frequently represents clients in the full range of family matters, the ‘efficient, organised and client orientatedButcher & Barlow LLP is a full-service firm with specialist knowledge in complex financial remedies, children law, and domestic abuse. Also in Northwich, family law specialist and mediator Caroline Cockill-Guy supports clients ‘both legally and emotionally at all times', particularly in cases relating to high-value asset finances, and is a sought after practitioner for farming families. The family group also includes Angela Gleave in Sandbach, who acts for clients in a broad range of private family matters, often with a cross-border element, and Claire Jackson, who is experienced in high-value financial matters and has a particular interest in TOLATA. The ‘brilliantAlex Williams in Frodsham, whose practice includes both finances work and Children Act proceedings, is also a notable contact.

Practice head(s):

Kevan Hankinson


Other key lawyers:

Caroline Cockill-Guy; Angela Gleave; Claire Jackson; Alex Williams


Testimonials

‘Butcher and Barlow have proven to be efficient, organised and client orientated. I engaged with Butcher and Barlow as part of a recommendation from a friend who has had positive experiences with the firm. I find this firm unique in that they have empathy with clients and are easy to communicate with. I am happy that I chose to entrust my case with this firm and highly recommend them.’

‘This firm is outstanding.’

‘Going through an unwanted divorce is difficult. However, I felt that Alex Williams and her team were there for me and had my back. Alex has always given a professional and balanced view. It gave me confidence to persevere where I may have given up.’

‘Warm and welcoming.’

‘This team are organised, efficient and helpful. They are welcoming, helpful and trustworthy. There is a personal, thoughtful and sensitive approach to clients which has been welcomed in the circumstances. Trust is built from the first meeting.’

‘Alex Williams was brilliant, kept me up to date on every little thing, and is just an all-round genuine person to have looking after me.’

‘Caroline Cockhill-Guy supported me through a difficult divorce process, ensuring that I was supported both legally and emotionally at all times. She navigated difficult circumstances, keeping me updated and ensuring I received a fair settlement. She also fairly challenged and effectively worked with barristers to deliver an outcome that I was completely satisfied with.’

‘Caroline Cockill-Guy from the very start has delivered an extremely professional approach to my case. Caroline has been honest and direct with her advice and likely outcomes, yet still has guided me through the court process with empathy and understanding at an incredibly difficult time in my life.’

Clarke Willmott LLP

Leveraging the strength of the firm’s large private client department, Clarke Willmott LLP in Manchester has an ‘extremely capable' family law team with international capabilities. The group assists clients with financial settlements on divorce, unmarried family disputes, and separation planning. The group is also experienced in child arrangement proceedings. Practice head Chris Longbottom, who is ‘a well-known and well-regarded partner in the local market', represents clients in a broad range of complex financial and children-related matters. Emily Finn, whose ‘capabilities are beyond her years of practice', has extensive experience representing clients in divorce proceedings, child arrangements, and wealth planning matters; she also has notable knowledge of fertility law.

Practice head(s):

Chris Longbottom


Other key lawyers:

Emily Finn


Testimonials

‘The team represented me in my divorce case, based on a personal recommendation. They were very supportive and very responsive, directing me through the process.’

‘An extremely capable team who are close-knit and supportive.’

‘The team is very responsive, clearly work well as a team and keep one another informed. Always keep commitments. Very happy with the service and advice they’re providing.’

‘Collaborative working makes this team a force to be reckoned with; they are thoughtful and responsive and work hard together to get the job done for their client.’

‘Chris Longbottom takes responsibility for each case, provides leadership and you really feel that the buck stops with him.’

‘Emily Finn is an extremely capable associate who is client-focused and very thorough.’

‘Chris Longbottom is a well-known and well-regarded partner in the local market. Strong support provided by associate Emily Finn whose capabilities are beyond her years of practice. They are a solid choice for clients and a safe pair of hands.’

‘Both Chris and Emily are pragmatic and approachable.’

Forbes Solicitors

Forbes Solicitors has a ‘dynamic and talented family team' with extensive experience representing clients in a broad range of public and private family and children proceedings. The practice is co-headed by the ‘experienced, unflappable and capableRubina Vohra in Blackburn who heads the private client team and is an expert in both finance and complex children cases, and Helen Shirbon in Preston, who leads the public law group and is ‘a tenacious advocate with particular expertise representing children in complex care proceedings'. Also in Blackburn, Gill Carr is ‘fantastic' in all aspects of children matters. The ‘highly knowledgeable' Sarah Robson and the ‘eminently capableNicola Rushton in Preston both specialise in high-value financial remedy proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Rubina Vohra; Helen Shirbon


Other key lawyers:

Gill Carr; Sarah Robson; Nicola Rushton


Testimonials

‘Forbes has a dynamic and talented family team which prides itself on giving clear, constructive and compassionate advice.’

‘Forbes as a firm are reliable and trustworthy. All solicitors there work to a high standard and they are very well regarded locally.’

‘The team is very client friendly and works excellently with both professional clients and vulnerable lay clients in public law children cases. The breadth of knowledge is impressive, as is the drive and dedication of the solicitors at Forbes.’

‘Helen Shirbon is a tenacious advocate with particular expertise representing children in complex care proceedings.’

‘Gill Carr is excellent due to her legal knowledge and experience. She is fantastic if the role includes meeting with the child client, as she is approachable, ensuring the child is well represented at all junctures.’

‘Rubina Vohra is a truly excellent and exceptional solicitor and advisor. Experienced, unflappable and capable. Always provides detailed and accurate advice which is reliable and sound.’

‘I found Sarah Robson to be highly knowledgeable from day one and the advice and guidance she gave was invaluable.’

‘Nicola Rushton is an exemplary lawyer with particular expertise in financial remedies. She regularly appears in court and is completely fluent in the relevant principles. She is eminently capable and when she instructs counsel she knows exactly what they need to know.’

Stowe Family Law LLP

Stowe Family Law LLP is praised by clients for having the ‘best family law team in Liverpool‘. It is a specialist practice with expertise in all private family law matters. With extensive cross-border capabilities, the group has notable experience advising high-net-worth individuals in nuptial agreements and on matters including complex business assets, trusts, and pensions, as well as in the international and domestic relocation of children. The practice is also co-headed by the ‘amazing’ Helen Miller in Altrincham, who has a broad family practice with particular expertise in complex financial remedy proceedings; Matthew Taylor in Liverpool, and Nastassia Burton in Manchester, who advises on all aspects of family law and ‘is capable of dealing with cases of the upmost complexity with skill‘. Another key practitioner is Camilla Burton-Baddeley in Altrincham, who focuses on private law children cases.

Practice head(s):

Helen Miller; Nastassia Burton; Matthew Taylor


Other key lawyers:

Camilla Burton-Baddeley; Gabrielle Read-Thomas


Testimonials

‘Stowe Family Law is a national specialist family law firm, which benefits from all the advantages one would expect from such a significant firm.’

‘The best family law team in Liverpool. Led by Matthew Taylor, there can be no doubt that any client is in extremely capable and empathetic hands.’

‘Nastassia Burton has ability beyond her years and is capable of dealing with cases of the upmost complexity with skill. She is a talented lawyer with a very bright future ahead of her.’

‘Gabrielle Read-Thomas is a fine lawyer with lots of experience, including outside of family law, which gives her an edge. She is a very practical lawyer with a common sense approach.’

‘Helen Miller is just amazing. The support and advice she provided throughout my case was exceptional. Her experience, combined with her professional but reassuring nature, immediately put me at ease and I had full trust and confidence in her approach and advice at all times.’

‘Helen Miller and her team helped me to achieve a fair financial settlement. They had high standards of work ethic during the negotiations so that I could reach a satisfactory outcome without going through the court process.’

‘Camilla Burton-Baddeley has been amazing throughout my divorce and finances. Camilla was always a call or email away and never made me feel silly about asking the most daft questions. I could have not got through this divorce without her compassionate nature and knowledge.’

‘Skilled, empathetic, clear advice, and knowledgeable, all of which were necessary skills during a painful divorce.’

Susan Howarth & Company Solicitors

Susan Howarth & Company Solicitors in Northwich has particular expertise in public family law proceedings, as well as broad knowledge in financial remedy work. Practice head Susan Howarth is a renowned family law specialist with extensive legal experience in complex children work, such as cases involving abuse, hostile parents, and international elements, and is also knowledgeable in all aspects of financial matters. Victoria Poole specialises in the full range of family law disputes, including divorce, domestic abuse, and Children’s Act proceedings, while Nicola Deakin, who has ‘exceptional knowledge of the law', focuses on children and Family Law Act matters, including private law adoption, domestic abuse, and advising on Special Guardianship Orders. The group also includes David Bannister, whose practice covers a broad range of family finances and children matters, and Sonia Rickard, who is experienced in care work and private family law matters.

Practice head(s):

Susan Howarth; Victoria Poole


Other key lawyers:

Nicola Deakin; David Bannister; Sonia Rickard


Testimonials

‘I have come away with a very positive experience with Susan Howarth’s firm and I will strongly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance. The firm remained professional and honest with me at all times. This made me feel confident and secure in my decision to use them throughout. I found that the team were able to answer efficiently to any queries I had and I was never made to feel a burden for asking them. ’

‘Unique and extremely competent; the team boasts strong advocacy and pragmatic advice. Entrepreneurs in managing clients’ expectations and value for money.’

‘Nicola Deakin is a credit to the firm. She has an exceptional knowledge of the law and a specialist knowledge of children law. I have no doubt Nicola will continue to make her mark in Family Law.’

VM Family Law

VM Family Law in Bolton is a boutique practice praised for its ‘highly efficient, very professional, calm and creative approach to family law dispute resolution'. Victoria Melling, who is ‘knowledgeable and kind in equal measure' is an expert in complex financial settlements and has extensive experience in financial remedy proceedings and cases relating to domestic abuse, while the ‘exceptionalAmanda Rimmer represents high-net-worth clients in cases involving complex settlements and business assets, as well as in matters involving a risk of harm to children. The group also includes Ceri Thomas, who works with high-net-worth individuals in a wide range of cases, including those relating to risk of harm to children and domestic abuse, and Laura Simmons, who specialises in all legal aspects of relationship breakdowns and has experience representing both local authorities and parents in public law proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Victoria Melling; Ceri Thomas; Amanda Rimmer


Other key lawyers:

Laura Simmons


Testimonials

‘This team punches well above its weight. The team is most notable for its highly efficient, very professional, calm and creative approach to family law dispute resolution. All members of the team are a very safe pair of hands and their client care is second-to-none.’

‘Bolton’s top family law firm.’

‘VM Family Law comprises of a compact team that each devote themselves, not only to achieve the best available result for their clients, but also to ensure that their clients understand what is an alien and frightening process.’

Ward Hadaway LLP

Ward Hadaway LLP in Manchester has a ‘very strong team' in matrimonial finance work, and the group regularly acts for business owners and media and sports personalities in divorce proceedings which can often involve complex financial issues and children-related disputes. The group is also experienced in nuptial agreements, particularly ones involving inherited wealth, and surrogacy law. The practice is co-headed by Christine Barker, who is ‘a force to be reckoned with' and an expert in high-value divorces and financial settlements, and ‘master of her tradeLiz Bottrill, who advises clients on divorce and cohabitation disputes, nuptial agreements, and issues relating to children; Bottrill is particularly capable of representing vulnerable clients. The group also includes David Burrows, who has ‘an abundance of knowledge' on the full range of family issues arising from a relationship breakdown, Rachael Longman, who has particular expertise in complex financial proceedings, and Rachel Ward, who has a broad family practice.

Practice head(s):

Christine Barker; Liz Bottrill


Other key lawyers:

David Burrows; Rachael Longman; Rachel Ward


Testimonials

‘Clear, demonstrable expertise. Effortless, timely communication. Preferred outcomes, delivered. What else could I ask for?’

‘From the initial consultation to the final conclusion, the Ward Hadaway team were highly professional. They guide you at every stage and explain the consequences of each decision that’s made. They also fully explain the complex legal system and you are given a diary of every step from the onset of their instruction.’

‘Great firm. Top for family law in their location. They are a very strong team.’

‘Liz Bottrill’s command of the complex area of law where I engaged her services is frankly astonishing. She has led a lengthy negotiation with a calm authority, appropriate communication and has guided me where and when required. Liz is clearly a master of her trade, and a credit to the profession.’

‘Liz Bottrill is excellent; she is very knowledgeable and has particular experience dealing with matrimonial issues for high-net-worth clients that lack mental capacity and have involvement with the Court of Protection. She is very calm and reassures her clients.’

‘Christine Barker is exceptional; she has a wealth of knowledge and has dealt with many awkward situations with divorce. From the initial meeting, Christine puts you at ease, she is very down earth and approachable. She is a force to be reckoned with within the legal circles.’

‘Christine Barker is a stellar performer. She is superb with clients and has an amazing attention to detail. She fights ferociously when necessary but knows how to go in gently when necessary.’

‘David Burrows has an abundance of knowledge, he’s so professional and has a very kind demeanour. Nothing is too much trouble and he is very patient, but firm . He’s so technical, everything he does is well thought out and precise.’

Watson Ramsbottom

Watson Ramsbottom in Blackburn has a ‘strong family law team who competently advise on all aspects of family law', and it is particularly sought after for its specialist expertise in dealing with cases involving domestic violence, stalking, forced marriage, and female genital mutilation. The group also specialises in child care and has unique experience in private law children cases involving coercive control and parental alienation. In addition, the group also handles high-net-worth family finance matters, as well as divorce, separation and ancillary relief mandates, and cases involving multiple jurisdictions. The ‘skilful and wise' practice head Rachel Horman-Brown specialises in cases of domestic abuse and stalking, and is an expert in matters involving coercive control.

Practice head(s):

Rachel Horman-Brown


Other key lawyers:

Sophia Isa


Testimonials

‘I have found the members of the firm to be supportive and helpful at all times.’

‘A strong family law team who competently advise on all aspects of family law.’

‘I have always been impressed with their knowledge of the subtleties of domestic abuse. I have valued their ability to truly listen to their clients in order to obtain their full story and this leads to their representation being much more thorough, particularly in the court setting.’

‘The level of communication between staff dealing with your case is second-to-none. Sophia Isa ensures that each member of staff dealing with your case knows all of the information and facts so they can support you at each step.’

‘Rachel Horman-Brown has been my trusted legal advisor on family and financial matters for many years. She is always attentive, approachable and takes great care in explaining my options and the implications of what I might choose to do. She makes the complex arguments clear and accessible to me as a client without legal training and I trust her implicitly. She is skilful and wise and I value her and the firm greatly.’

‘Sophia Isa is an exceptional practitioner with remarkable attention to detail. She provides well thought out instructions and is always at hand should any clarification be required.’

‘Sophia Isa has vast knowledge of specialist issues such as FGM and so called honour abuse. She is able to deal with cases where parental alienation is present, where there are additional factors such as drug and alcohol issues , and has worked on cases with an international element regarding child contact and residence.’

‘Sophia Isa’s professional approach to cases is exemplary and she undertakes her work with a sensitivity that is profound. She is a passionate advocate for victims and survivors of domestic abuse and whilst working tirelessly for her clients she also works within the local community to help others understand the issues faced by victims and survivors.’

Freeths LLP

Former Brabners LLP family lawyer Natalie Dickson is the new ‘formidable’ practice head at Freeths LLP in Liverpool since joining the firm in December 2023, and she has extensive experience representing high-net-worth individuals in divorce proceedings, financial settlements, and divorce and financial remedy applications. Antonia Williamson also joined Dickson in the move to form ‘an incredible duo‘, and she expertly handles the full range of private family law matters.

Practice head(s):

Natalie Dickson


Other key lawyers:

Antonia Williamson


Testimonials

‘Natalie Dickson is a formidable, talented lawyer who you want in your corner. Approachable, pragmatic and good at translating the complex. Antonia Williamson, like Natalie, is determined to do the best for her clients.’

‘The team is a brand new family team in Liverpool. It is led by Natalie Dickson, who has an extremely good reputation in the local market, having previously been a partner at Brabners. Although they are very new as an offering, the expectation is that they will become a go-to team for family law work in Liverpool.’

‘Natalie Dickson is very bright and capable and she has an excellent rapport with clients. She is also well regarded among her peers and has a strong network of referral relationships. Her colleague Antonia Williamson operates beyond her years of qualification.’

‘Natalie Dickson is an excellent and locally well-reputed lawyer. She has great attention to detail, but a cooperative and collegiate approach to cases. I can give no higher praise than to confirm I have recommended her to two close friends, whose difficult cases she handled ably.’

‘Highly experience and knowledgeable team. Client-outcome focused.’

‘Natalie Dickson and Antonia Williamson are an incredible duo and work exceptional well together. They have the depth of knowledge, experience and manner that enables them to provide high-quality service to clients. They are always contactable when needed and I would not hesitate to recommend to my clients.’

‘Freeths’ Liverpool family team is one to watch. They have recently commenced a programme of growth with some quality lawyers leading the charge. Pragmatic and polished advice from some of the most well-regarded solicitors in the city.’

‘Natalie Dickson leads the family team in Liverpool. Natalie already has an exceptional reputation in Liverpool and now brings that to bear in building the Freeths family team.’

Gorvins Solicitors

Praised by clients as ‘client focused, empathetic and efficient‘, Gorvins Solicitors in Stockport has an experienced group of family and matrimonial finance specialists who can leverage the firm’s commercial and property teams to provide a comprehensive service for clients. The group also advises on all aspects of private law children cases, as well as representing clients in public sector proceedings. Practice head Nicola Fraser has a ‘unique approach‘ and specialises in financial settlements upon divorce; she often advises on cases involving commercial assets, including family businesses and limited companies. Another key contact with a broad matrimonial law practice is Ainsley Pritchard, who ‘is passionate and fights hard for her clients‘. Patricia Robinson joined the practice in 2024.

Practice head(s):

Nicola Fraser


Other key lawyers:

Ainsley Pritchard; Patricia Robinson


Testimonials

‘Gorvins offer excellent communication skills from front of house to the conclusion of case. The conduct of the team is without doubt client focused, empathetic and efficient.’

‘Really committed to serving the local community and the north west area with attention to detail and very high levels of client responsiveness and sensitivity. Clients speak very highly of the concern and compassion provided in this most difficult of fields.’

‘My main interaction has been with Nicola Fraser, who has demonstrated a very unique approach to my needs. From the first conversation I had with her, she has offered her time, attention and listening skills to the situation and challenges I have faced with full attention.’

‘I have never felt that Nicola Fraser’s time was short and have never been rushed. I have been very impressed with how Nicola has a no-nonsense approach but not at the expense of empathy to my situation.’

‘Nicola Fraser is deserving of special mention as clients frequently reference her care and concern with nothing being too much trouble.’

‘Ainsley Pritchard is an incredible solicitor. She is passionate and fights hard for her clients. Ainsley is professional but has a very down-to-earth personality which allows clients to relate to her and trust her. Ainsley’s attention to detail is second-to-none.’

gunnercooke LLP

Benefiting from the status a full-service corporate and commercial firm, gunnercooke LLP has expertise in complex, high-value divorce and matrimonial finance work. The group also has broad experience in private child arrangement matters, particularly those cases involving abuse, and cases with an international element. The key contact is Roland Humphreys in Chester, who oversees all aspects of family law, has specialist experience representing agricultural clients in matters involving farming assets, and is knowledgeable in child maintenance litigation and alternative family structures.

Other key lawyers:

Roland Humphreys


Harrison Drury & Co

Led by the ‘skilled negotiator‘ John Osborne in Kendal, who specialises in all matters arising from relationship breakdowns and family disputes, Harrison Drury & Co has an ‘excellent team able to deal with all aspects of financial remedies’. The group has particular expertise in high-value divorces, and is also experienced in children matters and cases with a cross-border element. In Preston, the group includes Rebecca Patience, who advises on divorce proceedings and matrimonial finances, as well as children law disputes.

Practice head(s):

John Osborne


Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Patience; Emma Panchal; Jenna Atkinson


Testimonials

‘Every member of the team was kind, knowledgeable and highly professional. Given the subject matter was family-based, they always approached every situation with a child-focused approach with a view to conciliation rather than escalation. The firm did their utmost to reassure you they had your best interests at heart.’

‘The team at Harrison Drury from start to finish have given me complete confidence and encouragement along my journey. Constant feedback and updates, regular phone calls, messages and voice notes have kept me completely in the loop regarding all aspects of my complicated divorce case.  Absolutely 100% committed to their clients, I would strongly recommend this firm to anybody going through similar cases.’

‘Excellent team able to deal with all aspects of financial remedies.’

‘John Osborne is a skilled negotiator and excellent with company accounts.’

‘Rebecca Patience was outstanding. Incredibly calm and reassuring, clear and concise in her communication, and steadfastly reliable, not only in terms of doing what she said, but also not wavering from doing what was right in a given situation, even if that situation was unpleasant. I never felt anything other than expertly guided by her throughout the process.’

‘Emma Panchal is very professional and considerate to her clients. She shows empathy with her clients.’

‘Jenna Atkinson was amazing from start to finish with my complex family law issue which involved coercive control and domestic violence. I cannot thank the team enough for their professionalism and empathy during this challenging time for my family. Communication and aftercare was excellent. I highly recommend Harrison Drury for all legal requirements.’

HM3 Legal

The family practice at HM3 Legal in Chester has expertise in a broad range of family matters involving finances and children. The group ensures close collaboration with the private client, property and corporate law teams to provide a holistic service, and is increasingly experienced with individuals in farming and rural business. Practice head Elizabeth Hassall focuses primarily on financial settlements involving complex business assets and cases with an international element, and she also advises on nuptial agreements and Schedule 1 Children Act proceedings. Emma Evans, who is ‘a brilliant advocate and a credit to her team‘, has particular expertise in Children Act work, special guardianship applications, and relocation cases.

Practice head(s):

Elizabeth Hassall


Other key lawyers:

Emma Evans


Testimonials

‘The people I dealt with within this firm where respectful of my needs, assured me of my rights and worked to achieve the outcome I was looking for.’

‘Clarity and directness of approach. No nonsense, not dragging things out to merely increase fees, and a genuine interest in the circumstances and to do the right thing by their clients.’

‘They took a personal and professional approach to my problem and worked hard to get my desired outcome.’

Keystone Law

The family practice at Keystone Law has expertise in matrimonial dispute resolution, wealth protection, and the law of children. The group acts for a broad range of high-net-worth clients, such as business developers, landowners, and celebrities, often on cases with international elements, such as foreign nationals and offshore assets. The team can leverage the knowledge of the firm’s private client team in cases with complex trust structures and international tax, as well as drawing support on the reputation management team. Sarah Thompson is knowledgeable in financial remedy proceedings, pre-marital agreements, and Schedule 1 Applications.

Other key lawyers:

Sarah Thompson


Work highlights


Kuit Steinart Levy LLP

Kuit Steinart Levy LLP in Manchester advises clients with ‘the upmost care and attention' on the full range of private family law matters, and is particularly sought after for handling high-value financial matters, including divorce, separation, and wealth protection. The group frequently advises high-net-worth clients on financial matters involving complex trust and business arrangements and offshore assets, and additionally has strong capabilities handling children cases with an international element. Practice head Colin Davies is ‘extremely personable' and represents clients in financial matters with a cross-border element, and he is supported by Ayesha Griffin, who is highly experienced in separation and divorce matters.

Practice head(s):

Colin Davies


Other key lawyers:

Ayesha Griffin


Testimonials

‘Kuits are thorough and comprehensive in all private law children matters and represent their clients to the best of their abilities.’

‘Kuits has strong expertise in the private law areas they work in, which means they stand out in their field.’

‘Every case is treated with the upmost care and attention. The clients get a Rolls-Royce service.’

‘Colin Davies is an exceptional solicitor. He is old school and does not take on more cases than he can deal with which is a rarity these days. He deals with complex family matters, that often have cross-overs areas. I would highly recommend him.’

‘Colin Davies is extremely personable and offers empathy when you are going through the most traumatic time in your life.’

‘Ayesha Griffin is a fearless solicitor who has great attention to detail.’

Lowry Legal

Lowry Legal in Manchester is ‘boutique in the absolute best sense of the word‘ and represents clients across the full range of family law services, including divorce and separation, cohabitation and nuptial agreements, and matters relating to children. The ‘knowledgeable and experienced‘ Katie McCann frequently acts for high-net-worth clients in all matters regarding family law, with particular expertise in financial settlements in separation and divorce proceedings. The group also includes Michael Gregory, who is ‘great on financial remedies but also a go-to in surrogacy and fertility law’, and Abigail Woodcock, who has a broad practice with a particular interest in financial settlements in divorce and separation cases. Lesley Smythe joined the firm from DTM Legal LLP in July 2023 and is a specialist in all financial matters relating to divorce, Schedule 1 Children Act proceedings, nuptial agreements, and farming cases.

Practice head(s):

Katie McCann


Other key lawyers:

Michael Gregory; Abigail Woodcock; Lesley Smythe


Testimonials

‘Personal level of care and high level of professionalism. A high-octane team large enough for a wealth of expertise and experience but small enough to have rich discussions, pool ideas and know their clients and cases personally. Boutique in the absolute best sense of the word.’

‘A client-friendly team who robustly represent their clients interests. Vastly experienced in all areas of their work, genuine expertise and hugely respected in the industry. Certainly the premier family team in the north west as far as I am concerned.’

‘A well-known and prominent family law specialist firm with good quality at all levels.’

‘Lesley Smythe was outstanding.’

‘Katie McCann was so knowledgeable and experienced. She was able to be tactful and tailor the best possible team for my personal situation.’

‘Katie McCann is Barrister and works hard to understand her clients and give them the best opportunity to be heard and valued. She will spend time focusing on detail and covering all the groundwork with leads and case studies.’

‘Abigail was always on hand to provide reassurance and updates and I felt that whilst remaining extremely professional, the situation was relatively stress free due to her manner and approach, given the circumstances.’

‘Michael Gregory is great on financial remedies but also a go-to in surrogacy and fertility law.’

Slater and Gordon

The ‘fantastic' family group at Slater and Gordon in Manchester has expertise in a broad range of family matters, and the group is particularly experienced in representing clients in high-value financial remedy proceedings and children matters, as well as advising on nuptial agreements. Praised for her ‘knowledge, professionalism and strong capabilities’, practice head Georgina Chase advises on a broad range of family matters, including complex matrimonial finance cases, private children disputes, and cohabitation issues. The ‘standoutHannah Saxe joined from Irwin Mitchell in September 2023, and is an expert in complex child arrangements, often ones involving an international element, as well as modern family structures such as international adoption and surrogacy. Rebecca Cliff in Liverpool, who is ‘extremely capable and conscientious’, is also a key contact.

Practice head(s):

Georgina Chase


Other key lawyers:

Hannah Saxe; Rebecca Cliff


Testimonials

‘A firm that covers the full breadth of family law work. From low-value asset matters to HNW individuals, Slater and Gordon are a fantastic firm that delivers the legal product!’

‘Georgina Chase is sympathetic and understanding to her clients, and fights their corner hard.’

‘A personable and professional team.’

‘Rebecca Cliff is extremely capable and conscientious, giving her client’s exceptional service.’

‘Hannah Saxe is a well-informed, enthusiastic and highly motivated family law specialist.’

‘Georgina Chase is particularly helpful and leading a team of excellent solicitors. I would highly recommend Georgina for her knowledge, professionalism and strong capabilities. She is an excellent asset to the Manchester legal sector.’

‘Hannah Saxe is the standout member of the family team at Slater and Gordon; she excels in dealing with the most complex children law and modern family matters, and she has gained well-deserved recognition for her successful outcomes in complex children cases with international elements.’

‘The team received a huge boost with the arrival of Hannah Saxe as a partner. Her move there was a coup for them given her excellent reputation and stellar legal pedigree in the north west market.’

Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall (WHN)

Praised by clients as ‘knowledgeable, trustworthy, and approachable’, the family group at Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall (WHN) has expertise in both financial remedy and Children Act work, with particular experience in cases involving TOLATA, pensions, and complex financial aspects. Practice head David Connor in Rawtenstall has a broad family practice with a particular emphasis on the financial aspects of divorce and separation. The group also includes the ‘very dedicated family lawyer‘ Stephen Pinnington in Bury, who handles all aspects of family law and additionally specialises in cohabitation, civil partnership, and nuptial agreements, and Tanya Magell in Blackburn, who has expert knowledge in public and private Children Act work, and is an ‘excellent advocate’.

Practice head(s):

David Connor


Other key lawyers:

Stephen Pinnington; Tanya Magell


Testimonials

‘The ability to get things done quickly and professionally with respect to their clients and understanding what needs to be done and make it happen is impressive.’

‘Great firm.’

‘Great personality, but more importantly, crystal clear explanations in simple to understand terms in the legal profession. David Connor makes this happen at all points.’