Hodge Jones & Allen is now led by Vanessa Friend following Jacqueline Major‘s departure to Clintons in 2024. Friend also heads the firm’s mediation and ADR services. The group has specific expertise in TOLATA and Part III MFPA claims. Raj Bhattoa joined the practice from Stowe Family Law LLP in October 2024, bringing further strength in international and HNW finance cases. Sarah Norman – Scott, an accredited Resolution specialist in cohabitation and complex financial remedies, arrived from Osbornes in November 2024, and Phoebe Hill, who focuses on TOLATA and high-value pre-nuptial agreements, also joined from Stowe Family Law in September 2024. Manisha Raja moved to Josiah-Lake Gardiner Solicitors in October 2024.  
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Their multidisciplinary capabilities allow them to handle complex, multi-issue cases with a high degree of coordination. The firm is very much purpose-driven with a strong focus on societal impact. My experience of Raj Bhattoa has only ever been a positive one, and I look forward to hopefully working together in the future.’
  • ‘Raj Bhattoa is an outstanding lawyer. Raj consistently fights for her clients in an admirable manner, taking no nonsense whilst remaining calm under pressure. To add, Raj displays a meticulous eye for detail across all her dealings, providing strategic insight and workable solutions. ’

  • ‘Sarah Norman-Scott is a first class solicitor and specialist matrimonial finance practitioner/partner. She has an excellent command of the most factually complex cases and is not afraid to fight robustly for her clients.'

  • ‘A down to earth firm who strive to provide quality services to all.’

  • ‘Sarah Norman-Scott is a bright, tenacious lawyer who fights her client's corner whilst promoting a conciliatory and pragmatic approach. Sarah has particular expertise in nuptial agreements and I have always found her personable and approachable. It is such a relief to have her on the case and to know that I can pick up the phone and have a sensible and productive conversation.’

  • ‘I have found the team easily approachable and attentive when raising queries. Where the circumstances have been necessary, matters have been turned around swiftly.’

Practice head

Vanessa Friend

Other key lawyers

Raj Bhattoa; Sarah Norman-Scott; Phoebe Hill; Rebecca Coates; Hannah Yellop