Mr Neil Davies > Paris Smith LLP > Southampton, England > Lawyer Profile

Paris Smith LLP
NUMBER ONE LONDON ROAD
SOUTHAMPTON
SO15 2AE
England

Work Department

Family Law

Position

Consultant

Career

I am a consultant in the Family team, having previously been a partner in the firm and a Board member.

I am a divorce lawyer, mediator and collaborative lawyer.

My career has seen me act in some of the most complex cases for both national and international clients and I have assisted clients to resolve matters following the breakdown of a relationship, or indeed helped at the start of a relationship when forward planning for their finances has been required.

Having spent many years involved in complex court litigation, I have decided to now focus my work outside of the court arena – concentrating on assisting couples either in mediation or through the collaborative process.

My experience has taught me that it is rarely beneficial for couples to go through a lengthy court process, which regularly damages those involved and comes with a huge emotional and legal cost.

I want to work with couples to show them the alternative options available and to help guide them to a quicker, less costly and more effective outcome. My excellent colleagues are still available to help clients who are still having to navigate the court process or negotiate with other solicitors but my focus now is outside of that arena, working positively and productively with clients in order to achieve better outcomes for them and their family.

I have featured in the City Wealth Leaders List since its inception and have been awarded a 3 star rating in the 2021 edition, a rarity for someone practising in this region.

I am recognised in the Best Lawyers UK 2024 edition (and indeed have been since 2009) for Family Law.

Winner and recipient of a 2023 Lawyer Monthly ADR Award within the following category: Mediation – UK.

Lawyer Rankings

South East > Private client > Family: Hampshire

(Leading individuals)

Neil Davies – Paris Smith LLP

Paris Smith LLP is instructed by a notable roster of high-net-worth-individuals and business owners, demonstrating significant strength in the agricultural and rural sectors. The family division is well equipped to assist clients through mediation and arbitration proceedings, as well as private financial dispute resolution hearings. Winchester-based managing partner Huw Miles is an expert on nuptial agreements and cohabitee disputes, while in Southampton, Frank Prior focuses on high-value matrimonial finance cases. Neil Davies is a highly regarded mediator, and Sarah Passemard concentrates on complex litigation claims. Rachel Osgood is knowledgeable on family trust and separation matters, and Lisa Bray deals with private Children Act issues. Heather Souter is also noted.