1GC | Family Law is 'a family law set of the highest standard' with 'great strength in depth'. Philip Perrins' 'attention to detail is exemplary, as is his preparation on a case', and he is sought after for his deep expertise in advising on high-value financial remedy applications. David Burles has 'a commanding, confident persona, which immediately puts clients at ease', and Claire Heppenstall is well regarded for her ‘close attention to detail’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The clerks are helpful. Tommy Eyles always helps find the right counsel for the matter.'
  • 'Paul Harris is an outstanding example of excellence.'
  • 'David McDonald will always go that extra mile.'
  • 'David McDonald is incredibly approachable and helpful.'
  • '1GC | Family Law is a family law set of the highest standard.'
  • '1GC | Family Law has several talented barristers.'

Lawyers

Leading Juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.

1
Penelope Clapham
‘An extremely impressive barrister. Her preparation is first-class, and she is conscientious and fearless as an advocate.’
1
Philip Perrins
‘Philip is always one step ahead of his opponent. His advocacy skills are second to none, and he grasps the matter within moments.’
2
David Burles
‘David is an excellent advocate with a unique style which commands the court.’
2
Claire Heppenstall
‘Claire is a safe pair of hands. She negotiates sensibly and takes a stand when needed.’
3
Helen Jefferson
‘Helen is very bright. In advocacy, she is on top of all the figures and arguments.’
3
Eleri Jones
‘Eleri is hardworking, diligent and effective.’
4
Annabel Barrons
‘Annabel is a great barrister. Her advice is thorough and clear, she is fantastic on her feet, and her cross-examination is impressive.’
4
Matthew Brunsdon-Tully
‘Matthew is exceptionally bright and thinks forensically about his cases.’
4
Elizabeth Darlington
‘Elizabeth’s knowledge is superb, and her technical ability is second to none.'
4
Katherine Dunseath
‘Katherine is fearless and leaves no stone unturned.'
4
Elizabeth Hartnett
‘She has good understanding of complex financial remedy cases. She goes above and beyond.'
4
Joseph Moore
‘Joseph's key strength lies in his depth of knowledge across the family law spectrum.’
4
Jack Rundall
‘Jack is very personable with clients and robust in his advocacy. He wins judges around with his approach in court.'
4
Simon Sugar
‘Simon is diligent, on top of all the facts, and simply brilliant with clients. A focused and pragmatic barrister.'
4
Craig Vickers
‘Craig is fantastic. He is particularly good at tailoring his advice to each client's needs and always gets the tone right.’
4
Duncan Watson
‘Duncan has an excellent bedside manner and can adapt to each client's needs. He can think outside of the box and come up with unique and practical solutions.’
4
Oliver Woolley
‘Oliver is personable and immediately puts clients at ease. He instils confidence and always fights tooth and nail for his clients. His understanding of the law is second to none, and he is a smooth and well-accomplished advocate.’