Irwin Mitchell’s London family team is now led by Fran Hipperson, who acts in high-value and complex matters for HNW and UHNW individuals, frequently professionals, CEOs, and wealthy families, also advising on wealth protection strategies. The team handles a significant volume of pre- and post-nuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements. Growth areas include police federation work, providing advice on divorce and complex police pension issues, and advising families on wealth protection and succession planning. Claire Filer is frequently instructed in disputes involving third-party interests, and Carmel Brown has an increasing international practice, alongside wealth protection work. Richard Shaw is also noted for his expertise in TOLATA matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘This team has great strength in depth across the broad spectrum of family law work. It is noted not just for court work but for its use of alternative methods of dispute resolution. It is also willing to undertake pro bono work in meritorious cases.’

  • ‘Fran Hipperson is a stand-out lawyer notable for her unflappability and ability to turn her had to both financial and children work. She provides an excellent service to her clients.'

  • 'Claire Filer has a wealth of experience and technical expertise. Claire also leads the national team of family mediators.’
  • ‘The team are incredibly experienced and proficient in all areas of family law. The team is reliable, astute and pays attention to detail.’

  • ‘The national and international reach of the firm is matched by the strength in depth of the family lawyers there. I regularly recommend potential clients to the firm as I know that, whatever the nature of the case, they will be able to meet the client’s needs to an exceptional level.’

  • ‘Claire Filer is a superb lawyer. She possesses a keen intellect, wonderful people skills and a canny approach to cases which clients love. She is able to cut straight to the heart of a case and gets great results.’

  • ‘This is a big operation, but within its ranks are found some of the big hitters of the family law world. They operate from within a full-service firm able to offer expertise and experience across the board.’

  • ‘The firm has an excellent expertise at all levels. The team is driven to deliver best results for their clients and the clients have absolute confidence in the lawyers they work with. The team have made huge efforts to grow their NCDR offering, which only serves to benefit the clients they support. All around, an excellent team.’

Key clients

  • Mr C (C v S [2024] EWFC 109)

Practice head

Fran Hipperson

Other key lawyers

Claire Filer; Toby Hales; Carmel Brown; Richard Shaw; Hannah McCrindle; Alexandra Schippers; Hannah Braisted; Caoimhe Sykes