MSB Solicitors

Family

Senior Associate

Diane Matthews, who joined MSB Solicitors as a Senior Associate in January of 2024, was recognised in the 2023 edition of the  Legal 500 Directory as a key lawyer.  Specialising in divorce and separation matters, Diane has particular expertise in cases involving family business and she is also experienced in dealing with disputes between unmarried partners (TOLATA), Nuptial Agreements and cohabitation agreements. Diane also deals with disputes involving children and understands the complex issues that arise in this area following the breakdown of relationships. She advises clients in a calm and direct manner, often negotiating settlements without the need for an application to Court. Diane has close links with Lancashire Police Federation and hosts a free legal advice clinic serving Federation members each month at their HQ. Diane has a particular focus on pension issues and is a committed member of Resolution. With more than 20 years experience in the legal profession working in Lancashire and Manchester, Diane has a wealth of knowledge and expertise.  She is dedicated and pragmatic offering focussed support to her clients to guide them through the legal process whilst remaining sensitive to their individual needs.

Diane rose to the position of Associate in the Family team at Woodcocks, Haworth & Nuttall Solicitors prior to joining MSB. Prior to a career break to raise her two children, Diane worked for two prominent Manchester firms in their Divorce and Finance departments.

Diane is a keen animal lover and is proud to be a member of the Working Group on Pets on Divorce and Separation. The Group's patron is Sir Nicholas Mostyn KC who Diane feels privileged to be working with.  The aim of the group is to change the way that family pets are treated on divorce and separation. This aim is gathering momentum and Diane is hopeful that progress may be made.

Diane is a senior associate in the private family team.  She is responsible for supervisory duties and enjoys the opportunity to mentor junior colleagues. Where possible, she tries to attend talks given by junior colleagues as part of MSB's "Learning Lunch" and also contributes to the MSB internal newsletter. Whilst at WHN Solicitors in Blackburn, Diane created a free legal advice clinic which she operated on a bi-monthly basis. The clinic was based at Community Solutions North West, a charity dedicated to reducing social isolation and enhancing wellbeing.

iane is delighted to have recently joined the MSB Solicitors ESG Committee where she is a member of the Families sub committee.  As a working mother herself, Diane is keen to work on policies that assist other working parents.  She is also aware that modern families come in all shapes and sizes and hopes to ensure that MSB continues to be an inclusive, welcoming  space that supports everyone to reach their full potential.

Diane is a member of the Working Group on Pets on Divorce and Separation

Resolution

Diane is proud to be an old girl of the prestigious Glasgow High School, followed by study via Cilex Law School