Goodman Ray remains a standout boutique family firm known for its wide-ranging children law expertise, led by Peggy Ray, Jemma Dally and Kevin Skinner. Their work spans both public and private law, with a strong focus on modern family structures, international surrogacy and adoption, fertility law, and complex abuse-related proceedings. Ray’s practice includes acting for children and parents in serious care cases and adoption matters. ‘Legal genius’ Jemma Dally is particularly strong on international adoption and surrogacy, and Kevin Skinner combines public law expertise with international children work, and is frequently appointed as a solicitor guardian in Hague proceedings. The ’fantastic’ Hannah Perry, Emma Sherrington and Catriona Allan further strengthen the team’s public law work, particularly in cases involving serious abuse, non-accidental injury, deprivation of liberty and coercive control. Annie Chawla joined the firm from Irwin Mitchell in September 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Rachel Browne is exceptional and a tactical genius when it comes to public law children proceedings. She has more experience than most and is client friendly. Kevin Skinner has decades of experience in international cases and knows the law better than most. Clients adore his can-do attitude and he finds flexible solutions. Ann Thompson is simply unbeatable. She advises across the range of family law cases and offers the complete service to her clients.’
- 'Annie Chawla is an impressive solicitor with knowledge and experience beyond her years. Her client care is second to none, with her providing clear and frank advice in a personable and friendly manner. She is incredibly reassuring to clients and a pleasure to work with.'
Lawyers
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.
Catriona Allan
Hannah Perry
Emma Sherrington
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Janet Broadley
Practice head
Peggy Ray; Jemma Dally; Kevin Skinner
Other key lawyers
Catriona Allan; Hannah Perry; Emma Sherrington; Janet Broadley; Edward Nicklin; Rachel Browne; Annie Chawla