Newton Kearns LLP is a boutique family law firm founded by Paul Newton and Patrick Kearns, specialising in complex, high-value financial disputes on separation or divorce, as well as pre- and post-nuptial agreements. The team, which includes Frances Petterson and newly promoted partner Ali Granville, has a strong commitment to alternative dispute resolution whereby four of the firm’s five partners are trained mediators.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Victoria Francis stands out for her combination of steel, insight, and empathy. She is also my first choice family mediator. Paul Newton is pragmatic and reliable and has a good reputation.'
- 'Patrick Kearns is one of my favourite solicitors. He gets brilliant work and runs his cases smoothly - proportionate but also incredibly efficient with a keen eye on results. Ali Granville is brilliant and will go very, very far.'
- 'Superb boutique firm with a stellar reputation within the family law world. Strong leadership from the partners and great client care. Highly respected. I have referred some of my closest friends to them when they needed a family lawyer they could trust.'
- 'Paul Newton is brilliant. He is so down-to-earth. So uncomplicated. He doesn't get fazed by knotty issues or high emotion – he just sees the answer. Patrick Kearns is highly intelligent and one of the best negotiators at the family Bar. Frances Petterson is everyone's favourite. She is superb. She isn't afraid of anyone. She is completely independently minded. But she is charming. She'll fight tooth and nail for her clients. She always has their back.'
- 'Newton Kearns is one of the best boutique firms, with experience and wisdom well beyond the firm's age. Paul and Patrick lead the firm, setting the tone, culture, and collegiality. They work hard for their clients, but always with an eye to sorting things out.'
- 'Paul Newton is a pleasure to work with - but a tough opponent when he needs to be. He is clever, compassionate, and emotionally intelligent. Ali Granville is a great addition to the partnership.'
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.
Practice head
Paul Newton; Patrick Kearns
Other key lawyers
Frances Petterson; Victoria Francis; Ali Granville; Helen Lafferty