With ‘a fantastic set of family law barristers’, 1GC | Family Law boasts expertise in representing ultra-high-net-worth individuals, as well as less resource-heavy cases. Penelope Clapham, whose ‘advocacy is laser sharp’, has significant experience in matrimonial finance matters surrounding businesses, trusts, and farms. ‘A master of complex financial matters’, Philip Perrins is well-equipped to handle cases with international elements, such as disputed divorce jurisdiction and marital status cases. Claire Heppenstall is lauded as ‘an invaluable asset in family law proceedings’, especially those concerning the financial provision for children in Schedule 1 cases. David Burles, ‘an exceptionally persuasive and strategic advocate’, has a strong grounding in TOLATA and inheritance-related matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Excellent. Paul Harris and his team provide exceptional service to their members, solicitors and lay clients. Paul in particular is a joy to work with and works extremely hard to accommodate the needs of solicitors and clients.'
  • 'It is the best clerking operation in the business. Paul Harris is a dynamo of energy, David McDonald is Mr. Reliable, and the rest of the clerks team regularly solve the insolvable. A solicitor's dream.'
  • 'Tommy Eyles is excellent. He will do whatever he can to help and is a great communicator. You feel you are in safe hands when you know your case is being looked after by Tommy and that he will get things done.'
  • '1GC's clerking team are very accommodating and work hard to take care of everyone's needs. Their child arbitration and pFDR set up is particularly well run - Harry Elvin and Tommy Eyles always make sure things are run smoothly.'
  • 'Charlie Mills is a very friendly and approachable clerk, always happy to discuss diaries and costs to fit in with the case at hand.'
  • 'They listen to  you! Always helpful whatever the problem. Paul Harris, David McDonald and Sam Ditchman will go out of their way find a solution.'

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.

Duncan Watson
4
Duncan Watson
 'Duncan is extraordinary with his ability to think on his feet, provide advice to the client in a manner in which they understand and most importantly, his ability to think outside of the box so that all avenues are explored before providing advice in the client's best interest. His advocacy in court is second-to-none, his reasoning is sound, his delivery clear and tailored to the judge and needs of the case, and he approaches each matter with confidence yet maintains the sensitivity that the case requires.'