The practice at Blackadders LLP handles the range of disputes and advisory matters, including complex financial provision work, cross-border work, cohabitation matters, and cases involving abuse and criminal acts. Craig Samson leads the team, and Gareth Masson brings experience in international child and divorce matters. Joanne Murray is also central to the firm’s offering. Shona Smith joined from Balfour+Manson LLP in August 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Shona Smith is a formidable opponent but kind and reasonable to deal with - excellent at her job. Craig Samson knows his stuff - robust when required.’
‘A great family law team, with real strength and depth, and filled with people that you are delighted to have on the other side of a case because you know that they will be pragmatic and focused.’
‘Craig Samson and Shona Smith are both standout individuals. They approach cases sensitively and pragmatically. Both are happy to roll their proverbial sleeves up, think outside the box, and explore resolutions.’
‘When we first met someone from Blackadders, they took the time to listen to our story, were very empathetic, and offered sound advice. It was the first time we had felt that this was a firm that could help fight for us. The process was very simple with clear information along each of the steps.'
‘Craig Samson. His approach was so appealing that we chose Blackadders after our first meeting. We cannot recommend Blackadders highly enough.’
‘Craig Samson is a major presence in Glasgow/Edinburgh. A real heavyweight in money cases. Gareth Masson in the Aberdeen office is also a very safe pair of hands who undertakes his own advocacy. He is assisted by Joanne Murray in Aberdeen who is detail-orientated.’
Lawyers
Leading partners
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Practice head
Craig Samson
Other key lawyers
Gareth Masson; Joanne Murray; Shona Smith; Donde Thiam