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
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 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.'
- ‘Sarah Jane Lenihan is absolutely brilliant. She is great with clients and a pleasure to work with. When instructed in one of her cases you can be confident that sound and practical advice has been given, and the case is in apple-pie order. I cannot recommend her highly enough.’
- ‘The team had my best interest at heart. I felt they were so empathetic to how difficult I found the process. They were so thoughtful and conscious about making it as easy as possible for 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