The ‘powerhouse’ children team at Forsters LLP is now led by Sarah Williams, who is noted for her track record in adoption, surrogacy, and legal parentage, including complex non-Hague adoptions and pro bono transgender cases. Joanne Edwards is an experienced child-inclusive mediator known for her work with high-profile clients. She advises on all aspects of complex private children law matters, including international and domestic relocation, safeguarding, and capacity issues. Amanda Sandys regularly acts on high-value Schedule 1 claims and complicated arrangements involving allegations of abuse, working closely with external professionals such as Children’s Guardians and psychologists. Rosie Schumm has developed a niche in children’s cases involving disabilities and complex medical needs. The ’exceptional’ Simon Blain handles long-running parenting arrangements, including safeguarding, international relocation, and surrogacy.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Forsters are an absolute powerhouse with specialism across the full range of family law work, and an outstanding pedigree in children work.'
- ‘Sarah Williams is a great and passionate solicitor, hardworking and fights for her clients always. Her work is to an exceptional standard. She is genuinely passionate about achieving the best results for her clients.’
‘Simon Blain is an exceptional and highly respected lawyer. In his own work, he brings a mastery of detail and tactical acuity to providing outstanding representation to clients.'
‘A boutique family law team with superior knowledge and experience.’
‘Rosie Schumm and Joanne Edwards are formidable.’
‘Superbly lead by Jo Edwards a true 'mover and shaker' in family law. Growing in number with a good spread of skills and talents, including next Gen/future leaders ’
Work highlights
Represented client in an appeal pursuant to the Hadkinson jurisdiction, following their claims for financial provision under Sch 1 of the Children Act 1989 for her two children against their father.
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.
Sarah Williams
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Sarah Williams
Other key lawyers
Joanne Edwards; Rosie Schumm; Amanda Sandys; Simon Blain; Dickon Ceadel; Guy Mawson