Between its Ipswich, Cambridge and Norwich offices, Birketts LLP fields a family law practice that is one of the best renowned in East Anglia. Practice head Katie Beaven is regarded by clients as an ‘excellent team leader and solicitor’, and provides specialist advice, particularly to family businesses, with a focus on farming businesses. She routinely acts for senior members of the business community, as well as clients working in London. Juliet Harvey is also a well-known specialist in family law, excelling in complex cases and non-court based dispute resolution. Sarah Overy is the lead contact at the Cambridge office, while in Norwich Denise Findlay is the name to note. Deborah Lloyd, Ivana Radovic, and Francesca Skakel are among the other practitioners regularly involved in the practice.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘It hardly needs saying that divorce is an extremely difficult and highly emotional matter for clients that calls for a high degree of sensitivity, tact and empathy from their lawyer. The lawyer also needs to be honest and pragmatic in their advice, have a very good understanding of the complexities of a wide range of financial situations, be firm when required, and quick. Katie Beaven had the full suite of skills and brought them to bear very effectively in her work, while also keeping the heat out of the situation.'
- 'There are no winners in a divorce. Instead what Katie Beaven delivered was a fair outcome that will stand the test of time as well as the scrutiny of our adult children whose buy-in is essential for there to be lasting and peaceful relations within the family.’
‘I was recommended Birketts, Katie Beaven in particular, by a friend of mine whose daughter had used her services for a divorce. It was unknown territory to me and I wanted a good recommendation which Birketts, Ipswich certainly are. The junior staff who accompanied her were very professional and friendly. They are a very professional team who I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.’
‘I have worked with Katie Beaven for the last 4 years. I’ve found her to be 100% reliable and supportive who gave everything to get the award I received from the judge.’
‘The family team at Birketts is very strong as it has a number of very experienced solicitors with a wide breadth of both legal and local knowledge. The team is headed up by the excellent Katie Beaven who it is always a pleasure to work with. I'm aware that the firm has its own case management system which aids their working practise. ’
‘Katie Beaven stands out as an an excellent team leader and solicitor. She is always available on the phone to discuss a case and despite her role as team leader she is quick to respond to emails. She is both very approachable and knowledgeable. Juliet Harvey and Ivana Radovic are both very thorough and efficient in their working practises.’
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Juliet Harvey
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Lisa Cornish
Deborah Lloyd
Practice head
Katie Beaven
Other key lawyers
Juliet Harvey; Sarah Overy; Denise Findlay; Deborah Lloyd; Ivana Radovic; Francesca Skakel