The ‘exceptional’ boutique family law firm Hughes Fowler Carruthers is led by Frances Hughes, known for handling complex cross-border custody and relocation cases involving substantial assets. Renato Labi and Alex Carruthers both advise on relocation and child arrangement proceedings with an international dimension. Bryan Jones focuses on long-term child arrangements involving education and welfare planning. Kate Brett handles international custody cases across multiple jurisdictions, while Caroline Park is also a key member of the team. Pauline Fowler remains a consultant to the firm following her retirement from partnership.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Liam Bennett and Sarah Walker are particularly good senior associates. They both have encyclopaedic legal knowledge and total dedication to their clients.’
‘Caroline Park is superb. She is particularly strong in client care and legal analysis.’
‘Bryan Jones stands out as a sound lawyer with good judgment and an approachable attitude.’
‘Strength at the top of the team, hugely experienced partners.’
‘Alex Carruthers, a top quality partner, gives clear and robust advice whilst having his client's back the entire time.’
‘Renato Labi is no-nonsense, tells it like it is, and has the respect of his clients and the courts for his assured, straightforward approach. Lauren Deane is meticulous, hard-working, and dedicated. Ellie Hiskett is just superb - smart, sensible, and fantastic judgment.’
Key clients
- P v R [2024] EWFC 3 (B)
Work highlights
Advised a mother on her successful court application to relocate with her 9-year-old son with autism to Australia.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Frances Hughes
Other key lawyers
Renato Labi; Alex Carruthers; Bryan Jones; Caroline Park; Kate Brett; Liam Bennett; Sarah Walker; Lauren Deane; Ellie Hiskett