Vaitilingam Kay, led by founders Anne Kay and Joe Vaitilingam, is described by clients as ‘simply the best of the boutique family law firms,’ handling matters involving family trusts, religious marriages, and clients in the public eye, including Premier League footballers. Vaitilingam has expertise on the relationship between trusts and family law and, alongside Kay, advises on multijurisdictional cases and complex prenuptial agreements. Thomas Duggins specialises in wealth protection through prenuptial agreements that often have international elements, and Kathryn Cassells is particularly strong in financial matters involving trusts, intervenor disputes, and economic abuse.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Vaitilingam Kay are a successful example of a boutique family law firm which has strength in depth but also the personal approach of a smaller firm.’

  • ‘Joe Vaitilingam is universally liked and respected; his pragmatism is second to none, as is his ability to see around a problem to reach a solution. Thomas Pavey is calmly dedicated to his clients. Kathryn Cassells brings an upbeat thoroughness to her cases. Kate Barnett is highly intelligent, charming and a real asset to her clients.’

  • ‘Excellent boutique firm. Top drawer. I have referred many of my closest friends to them. Capable of handling UHNW cases with a sensitivity and cost consciousness of a smaller firm.’

  • ‘Simply the best of the "boutique" family law firms. Top-quality legal advice and representation.’

  • ‘Tom Pavey is a brilliant partner. He is witty and very funny - essential when on the most difficult cases, and knows when to lighten the mood. He is also willing to draw red lines and enforce them when needed, and knows how to judge that need well.'

  • 'Kathryn Cassells is a total star. She gives each client the best possible support and advice and never shies away from hard advice. Counsel adore her for her case preparation and clients love her for her soft skills.’

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

Anne Kay; Joe Vaitilingam

Other key lawyers

Thomas Duggins; Sara Wychrij; Thomas Pavey; Kate Barnett; Kathryn Cassells; Katie Chew