Harbottle & Lewis LLP‘s matrimonial team is recognised for its track record in handling high-value divorces in the public eye, often involving complex valuations spanning international business interests. Catherine Bedford, regarded as ’one of the leading lights’ in family law, works alongside the firm’s reputation protection team to safeguard privacy and was elected the firm’s first female senior partner in 2024. Nicholas Westley, a ‘powerhouse’, has particular strength in nuptial and cohabitation agreements. Mark Irving has expertise in contested probate and trustee involvement in divorces, and Lidia Cantele often works on high-profile matters, also managing intricate jurisdictional, privacy, and reputational dimensions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'Harbottle has a brilliant team in the matrimonial finance field. For what appears to be a smaller and more boutique firm, they in fact bring the clout of the large-scale commercial firms with which they compete in all the high net worth cases across London and the UK.’
‘Alex Ward is a force to be reckoned with. There are few lawyers in financial remedy cases who bring this degree of knowledge and legal nous to a case.'
‘Catherine Bedford is nothing short of sensational. In the family law space, she's the best and brightest lawyer; the most sophisticated negotiator; and the best and most driven litigator. She gets clients what no-one else would dream possible.'
- 'Lidia Cantele is utterly outstanding. A superb lawyer, wonderful with clients, and a joy to work with. Mark Irving has a first-rate brain, and is an outstanding lawyer and a total superstar. A solicitor whom any client would be lucky to have. Top drawer.'
‘Nick Westley is a stand-out lawyer. His knowledge of the law is matched by his numeracy and skill in understanding complex financial affairs. Mark Irving has great judgment and is very adept at maximising the outcomes for his clients.’
‘Mark Irving always goes the extra mile for clients; his knowledge of his cases is unparalleled. Alex Ward is very calm with great tactical awareness. Emma Williams is able to handle clients with a fair but firm hand and is exceptional to work with. Lidia Cantele has an encyclopedic knowledge of the law!’
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
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.
Practice head
Catherine Bedford
Other key lawyers
Nicholas Westley; Mark Irving; Alex Ward; Lidia Cantele; Emma Williams; Helena Middleton