Farrer & Co’s children law practice, led by William Massey, is noted for its expertise in complex private law disputes, often with international dimensions. Regarded by one client as 'one of the most outstanding professionals I have ever worked with', Sarah Hutchinson, a skilled mediator and litigator, regularly handles Hague Convention matters and serious safeguarding issues. Claire Gordon is particularly experienced in representing international clients, especially those with connections to Hong Kong, Switzerland, and New York, advising on relocation, surrogacy, and parentage disputes. Caroline Holley, Edward Floyd, and Amy Radnor all handle fact-finding hearings and allegations of abuse, with Radnor focusing on international and safeguarding-heavy disputes. Frederick Tatham has experience with non-accidental injury cases, while Flora Harragin and John Davies are also recommended.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The absolute top-class Farrers just keep going from strength to strength. It never sits on its laurels but develops with the changes in family law.'
‘Caroline Holley has a superb international children's law practice. She often acts for clients from the corporate world, in particular with US connections. She fights tooth and nail for her clients and achieves phenomenal results.'
- 'Sarah Hutchinson is passionate about children law work. She is deeply committed to finding child-focussed solutions and trying to take the heat out of her cases. She is wise beyond her years and is very successful at finding solutions to what appear to be intractable, high-conflict cases. She is very personable too.'
- 'John Davies is a very experienced children lawyer with great insight into cases where harm is alleged and where the private law work interacts with social services involvement. He gives clear advice which is bang on and never takes an unrealistic stance. He is affable and can get on with clients from all walks of life.'
‘Farrer & Co offer a five-star service with exceptional lawyers at both partner and associate level.’
‘Flora Harragin brings a calm and empathetic approach to her cases, which is greatly valued by her clients. She is robust but handles cases with care and sensitivity. Edward Floyd is an intelligent and knowledgeable lawyer with particular expertise in complex, high-value cases. Amy Radnor is a highly experienced litigator who gives her clients clear and pragmatic advice to ensure they achieve the best possible outcome. Shivani Brennan is always calm and collected, even under intense pressure, and gives sensible and measured advice.’
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Alexander Woolley
Practice head
William Massey
Other key lawyers
Sarah Hutchinson; Claire Gordon; Caroline Holley; Amy Radnor; Flora Harragin; Frederick Tatham; John Davies; Alice Quirk; Edward Floyd; Jessica Gibson; Bob Wheldon; Shivani Brennan