Debenhams Ottaway is noted for its ‘ability to balance expertise and empathy’ when handling a range of family law matters for a client roster that includes high-net-worth individuals. In particular, the team is strong in matters that often involve business interests, child arrangements, and divorces surrounding significant assets. In St Albans, the team is jointly spearheaded by Natalie Lester and Stacey St Clair; Lester is a recognised authority on high-value cases involving financial matters and divorce proceedings, and is a key contact for business owners and wealthy families, while St Clair, leverages decades of experience in divorce and financial matters which are at the intersection of inheritance, corporate, and pension issues. Helen Young has recently retired.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘This firm provides a substantial breath of experience in the field of family law. It is obvious when dealing withy the team that there is an underlying level of experience and that is very reassuring. It inspires confidence in the firm's superior level of competence.’
‘Natalie Lester is a stand-out individual with great people skills and knowledge.'
‘What make Debenham Ottaway different isn't just their legal knowledge, it is how much they care about their clients. Since the beginning, my solicitor and her team made me feel heard and supported. They have not just given me legal advice, they have guided me through the whole process with kindness and empathy. I have never felt like just another case, they truly want to help me.'
‘Natalie Lester has been outstanding as my lawyer in my divorce case. She understands my perspectives and concerns as we have navigated the process, often pre-empting my questions and proactively providing the information that I needed to hear at the time I needed to hear it. I would highly recommend her.’
‘Debenhams Ottaway's Family Department stands out for their service and ability to balance expertise and empathy for clients. We often refer conflict work to them or matters where the other side to a matter requires legal advice.’
‘Natalie Lester has strong legal knowledge and exceptional interpersonal skills, making her the lawyer of choice for many. Natalie is proficient at providing clear legal advice and is always looking to resolve matters, where possible, without incurring substantial legal costs.’
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Natalie Lester; Stacey St Clair