Harbottle & Lewis LLP acts in sensitive and complex private law children matters for high-profile and international clients. The team is led by Catherine Bedford, whose experience covers internal and international relocations, as well as cases involving allegations of abuse, coercive control, parental alienation and criminal conduct. Nicholas Westley advises on relocation and Schedule 1 cases, including those involving psychological experts and cross-border elements. Mark Irving focuses on financial provision for children under Schedule 1. Emma Williams is experienced in relocation cases and often advises where criminal proceedings run in parallel. Alex Ward is also recommended.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Catherine Bedford is a truly wonderful family lawyer, leader, and an inspiring presence. Few solicitors have the blend of experience, knowledge, understanding of the industry and sheer courage to run big cases in the way that Catherine does – I would recommend her extremely highly. Mark Irving is an excellent lawyer who thinks out of the box for his clients. He is very popular for his calm presence and analytical thinking. Lidia Cantele is without doubt a star of the future at H&L.'
‘Mark Irving is a phenomenally intelligent lawyer who approaches his clients with great sensitivity and care.’
‘A high-end but understated firm full of exceptional individuals from a variety of different backgrounds. Immensely polished but without the stuffiness associated with some setups. They have a keen eye on the detail.'
‘Lidia Cantele is a measured, sound, and safe advisor who is willing to put up a fight. Alex Ward is laser sharp and makes the most complex issues digestible to clients.'
‘Emma Williams is fast establishing herself as a name to be reckoned with and a go-to in the world of family law. She is down to earth in her manner and brings a formidable legal knowledge and willingness to fight hard when needed.’
‘Harbottle & Lewis stood out to me out for its exceptional understanding of my parental conflict and unwavering commitment to prioritizing my children's best interests. Their team's strengths lie in their seamless access to a network of professionals, ensuring comprehensive support for clients. This firm surprised me by combining compassion with professionalism, creating a nurturing environment for families navigating challenging times. Clients can trust that they will receive not only expert legal guidance but also empathetic support tailored to their specific needs, making Harbottle & Lewis someone I would 100% recommend to all my friends.’
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Practice head
Catherine Bedford
Other key lawyers
Nicholas Westley; Mark Irving; Alex Ward; Emma Williams; Lidia Cantele; Helena Middleton