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.'
  • ‘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.'

Work highlights

Represented a stepfather who applied for the return of Children to New Zealand following their abduction.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

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Leading partners

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Next Generation Partners

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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