Freemans Solicitors’ children team is led by Nina Hansen and Laura Coyle, praised as ‘two of the best partners in the business’. Hansen is a market leader in cross-border work, including Hague abductions, adoptions, complex care proceedings, and fact-finding hearings. She advises a wide range of clients, from vulnerable individuals to ultra-high-net-worth and high-profile figures, on both private and public law children matters. Coyle is experienced in international and domestic work, frequently acting in public law cases involving serious allegations such as non-accidental injury and sexual abuse. Andriana Syrimis advises on challenging cases involving relocation, abuse, and international jurisdictional issues. Described as ’truly exceptional’ by clients, Marianna Michaelides has a specialist practice in international children law, particularly Hague and non-Hague abduction, surrogacy, and jurisdictional disputes, as well as regularly handling Wardship and transnational abandonment matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Nina Hansen is a deeply nurturing presence with a steely core and exceptional ability. Beneath her calm and gracious exterior lies a razor-sharp legal mind and unwavering determination. Clients and colleagues alike benefit from her wisdom, strength, and impeccable judgment.'
- 'Laura Coyle has a formidable work ethic and an exceptional ability to master vast volumes of complex material with speed and precision. Her confidence is striking, driven by genuine talent and deep legal insight. She brings boldness, clarity, and a sharp intellect to every case she touches.’
‘Adriana Symris is dedicated to her clients. She goes above and beyond and is particularly good when acting for young people - relatable and engaging with them.'
‘Laura Coyle combines a shrewd legal mind with tenacity and charm. As a children’s solicitor, she is the full package offering exceptional client care to vulnerable children, putting them at ease while robustly advancing their case.'
‘Nina Hansen is a standout figure in the field of international family law—highly regarded for her expertise and leadership. Laura Coyle is an exceptional lawyer, known for her relentless dedication and determination to secure the best possible outcomes for her clients.’
‘Marianna Michaelides has been a really excellent acquisition/addition to the Freemans team- they are really lucky to have her! She really cares about her clients and is willing to go that extra mile for them. She is incredibly hard working.'
Work highlights
Represented a stepfather who applied for the return of Children to New Zealand following their abduction.
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Practice head
Nina Hansen; Laura Coyle
Other key lawyers
Andriana Syrimis; Marianna Michaelides; Sophie Lambert; Gulizar Candemir; Samantha Harris; Lucy Reynolds