Dawson Cornwell LLP’s family offering handles complex, high-value cases, often with a significant international dimension. Russell Bywater has particular expertise in advising high-net-worth clients on international trusts, jurisdiction battles, and strategic domicile issues to protect wealth. Jessica Reid advises on financial disputes involving offshore assets, non-disclosure, and nuptial agreements, while also frequently advocating. Sarah Jane Lenihan focuses on clients with layered business, trust, and international interests. ‘Titan of family law’ Simon Bruce’s cross-border practice is strengthened by his commitment to mediation and pro bono work. Charlotte Conner is well-versed in multijurisdictional enforcement and offshore structures; Kate Brett regularly advises on cases with German elements; and Anna Shadbolt covers the full range of financial matters arising from divorce and separation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Dawson Cornwell are a superb family law firm with real strength in depth. They are led by Simon Bruce who is a titan of the family law. I would strongly recommend them as a firm capable of dealing with the most complex cases in all areas of family law. ’
- 'Jessica Reid is smart, driven, confident and experienced. All of these ingredients make a fantastic lawyer. However, her superpower and what makes her phenomenal, is her work ethic. I genuinely don't think there is a solicitor I know who works as hard as she does, her work ethic is unrivalled. It makes her an incredibly potent force and our client was extremely lucky to have her engine powering his case. Undoubtedly he would not have achieved the outcome he did without Jess.'
Russell Bywater is wiser than the moon. He has seen it all. Kate Brett is an absolute superstar, tipped for the very top. Jessica Reid is the iron hand in the velvet glove.'
‘As one of the few remaining top tier law firms in central London with a legal aid certificate, there is no greater indicator of Dawson Cornwell's commitment to justice above all else. They host one of the most international teams of family lawyers, which puts them are the very fore of international children and divorce issues.’
‘Charlotte Conner is a workhorse. She does not stop, and will go to the end of the earth for her clients. A real fighter.'
- 'Anna Shadbolt is a superstar. A very thoughtful and creative lawyer with an eye for detail. She is on top of every issue of a case, which is always a barrister's dream. She is a pleasure to work with and, if I were to get divorced, without a doubt the only solicitor I would want to represent me.’
Key clients
- Lauryn Goodman v Kyle Walker [2024] EWFC 212 (B)
- ST v AR [2025] EWFC 4
- JL v NN [2024] EWHC 1489
- Vince v Vince [2024]
Work highlights
Represented Kate Vince in financial remedy proceedings in the High Court regarding how a couple’s assets should be divided between them on divorce, including the length of the marital partnership and any wealth that had been accrued before or after the marital relationship.
Acted for the husband a High Court trial relying on the Standish Court of Appeal case, reiterating the source of the money and its relevance to needs.
Acted on a pro bono basis for a husband in defence of his wife’s appeal resulting in guidance on the application of the test for fraud in a financial remedy case.
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
Russell Bywater
Other key lawyers
Simon Bruce; Jessica Reid; Sarah Jane Lenihan; Charlotte Conner; Anna Shadbolt; Kate Brett